THE Anwar Ibrahim-led unity government is effectively barring legitimate political discourse and freedom of speech by charging the caretaker Kedah menteri besar with sedition for talking, said Lawyers for Liberty director Zaid Malek.

He reminded Pakatan Harapan that it used to be opposed to the oppressive law.

“This is a black day for the country. The notorious Sedition Act has reared its ugly head again, now used against a key political rival of the government,” Zaid said in a statement today.

“It is appalling that this has happened under a government led by PH, which when in opposition long condemned the existence and usage of the Sedition Act as oppressive and an affront to freedom of speech. 

“PH and its leader Anwar’s condemnation of this law seems reserved only for when they are at the receiving end of it. Now they have no qualms utilising it when they are in power,” Zaid said in a statement today.

He said the government must immediately suspend the operation of the Sedition Act pending repeal at the next parliament session of parliament. 

“We further urge the attorney-general to withdraw the sedition charge against Sanusi,” he said.

Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor today pleaded not guilty to two charges of sedition in the Selayang sessions court. He is accused of fomenting discontent or disaffection among the subjects of the Selangor ruler as well as the king.  – July 18, 2023.