Klang MP’s comments don’t defame Zakir, lawyers say

Chan Kok Leong Chan Kok Leong Updated 6 years ago · Published on 28 Nov 2019 4:04PM · 3 Comments

Klang MP Charles Santiago (pic) is being sued by controversial preacher Zakir Naik for defamation. Santiago says he received a writ of summons today. – The Malaysian Insight file pic, November 28, 2019.

CHARLES Santiago’s statements that Zakir Naik has taken offence at are fair and bona fide comments on matters of public interest, said the Klang lawmaker’s lawyers.

“As an elected MP, our client has a duty and is obliged to voice out in respect of national issues, including matters relating to the decisions made by the government or police,” said Messrs S.N. Fam & Co in a letter to the controversial preacher.

The lawyers said their client’s statements are an expression of his opinion on the arrest of two DAP assemblymen under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 and its timing.

“The statement by our client on the use of Sosma as a tool to punish those who have spoken out against Zakir and the arrest of the two DAP assemblymen was, in fact, questioning the decision made by the authorities.”

The lawyers said Santiago’s remarks were made without malice, and do not defame Zakir.

“We are further instructed that our client’s opinion is not unfounded, and as such, the allegations in Paragraph 7 are baseless, and are denied.

“Our client stands by the statements he made, and does not see the necessity for an apology in the matter.”

The letter, addressed to Zakir’s lawyers at Messrs Akberdin & Co, is dated today.

Santiago told The Malaysian Insight that he received a writ of summons from the preacher today.

The India-born Zakir, who is wanted in his home country on suspicion of money-laundering and inciting terrorism, sent a legal notice to the MP this week, accusing the DAP man of defaming him.

The latest two DAP leaders to be sued by the preacher are Human Resources Minister M. Kula Segaran and Bagan Dalam rep Satees Muniandy. – November 28, 2019.

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Comments

  • Yes, stupid Zakir. Santiago talked about the authority.

    Posted 6 years ago by Penganalisa L · Reply

  • Why is ZN so sensitive when he has not shown any sensitivity whatsoever when commenting on our country politics and religious matters as well as when making unnecessary racist comments?

    Posted 6 years ago by Rupert Lum · Reply

  • What happened to the police reports made about Zakir Naik's speeches / statements that touched the sensitivities of the non-Muslims? Why doesn't the Penal Code apply to him? Could the police please explain!

    Posted 6 years ago by Ravinder Singh · Reply