Politics

Saifuddin: No political vengeance in probes against Sanusi

POKOK SENA: Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Abdullah today brushed off claims of political vengeance behind police probes against Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor regarding his remark that Penang belongs to Kedah.

Saifuddin said police initiated the investigation based on reports filed against Sanusi, and he urged all parties to respect the due process.

"That is the issue. If the government fails to take action against remarks that cause public anxiety, it is seen as toothless and afraid to act.

"Once the police take action, there are accusations of politically motivated (probes).

"Hence, let's allow the police to carry out their duty professionally. There is no need to be anxious, just cooperate until the investigations are completed.

"Once the investigations are concluded, the police will forward the investigation papers to the Attorney-General (A-G).

"If the A-G determines that the probe is sufficient, then prosecution will proceed. If the A-G finds it insufficient, the investigation papers will be returned to the police," he told reporters after inspecting the progress of a design and technology laboratory project at SK Jabi, together with Education Minister Fahdlina Sidek.

Saifuddin, who is also the federal government's Kedah Development Committee chairman, expressed confidence that Sanusi would fully cooperate with the police.

"Let them (the authorities) do their job. There is no need to issue remarks that this is a political vengeance because it is not the case.

"Clearly, before the probes (the remark made), was to repeal or amend the (Federal) Constitution, but when questioned by the police, Sanusi claimed that he did not mention amending the Constitution. So, let's stick to one statement.

"Whether he said it or not, let the police investigate. It has nothing to do with political vengeance or any other motive. I categorically deny such claims," he said.

Saifuddin was responding to claims by Pas that the investigations against Sanusi represent a 'black episode' in Malaysia's democratic history, which upholds freedom of speech.

On Wednesday, a Federal police team from Bukit Aman recorded Sanusi's statement at Wisma Darul Aman regarding his remark that Penang still belongs to Kedah.

In a press conference after his statement was recorded, Sanusi denied demanding the amendment of the Federal Constitution to reclaim Penang, stating that this was misreported by a news portal.

Sanusi maintained that he was merely requesting a review of the annual leasing for Penang to reflect the current market value

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