The Attorney General’s Chambers states its decision to seek a discharge not amounting to acquittal for Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi was lawful and based on the need for further investigation.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Attorney General’s Chambers has defended its decision to seek a discharge not amounting to an acquittal for Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
It stated the move was in strict compliance with the law.
In a statement, the AGC said its application on September 4, 2023, was based on the circumstances at the time.
This included the need to conduct further investigations.
The statement was issued in response to a report that a judicial review application had been filed at the High Court.
The application concerns the court’s decision to grant Ahmad Zahid a DNAA.
“That judicial review application raises issues concerning the progress and outcome of the investigations referenced at the time of the DNAA application,” the AGC said.
It acknowledged the matter involves significant questions regarding public confidence and the proper administration of justice.
The AGC added it will not make any further statement on the merits as the matter is now before the court.
It stated it will cooperate fully with the judicial process and comply with any court orders.
On September 4, 2023, the High Court granted Ahmad Zahid a DNAA on 47 charges.
The charges involved criminal breach of trust, corruption, and money laundering relating to Yayasan Akalbudi funds.
Judge Datuk Collin Lawrence Sequerah made the ruling after the prosecution informed the court the AGC intended to discontinue proceedings.
Lawyer Datuk Syed Amir Syakib Arsalan Syed Ibrahim filed the application for judicial review today.
The application seeks a mandamus order to compel the Attorney General and prosecutors to complete their investigation and review concerning the DNAA.
