Ismail Sabri claims selective prosecution over charges against Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR: The charges against former deputy minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi was a case of selective prosecution and politically motivated, says Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

The Umno vice-president said the charges would demoralise party members and Dr Ahmad Zahid should be righteously defended.

He said for him the one who has been charged was not Dr Ahmad Zahid but Umno president.

"Therefore, our duty as Umno members should support our leader.

"That is why many people came to the courts complex to give their moral support as they feel that the charge is a selective prosecution and politically motivated," he added.

Dr Ahmad Zahid is expected to face multiple charges at the Sessions Court under the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act and the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act.

After spending a night in the MACC lock-up, Dr Ahmad Zahid is expected to face multiple charges under the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act and the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act.

On Thursday, investigators arrested the 65-year-old former deputy president at 3.15pm.

Dr Ahmad Zahid was investigated over allegations of misappropriation of funds belonging to Yayasan Akal Budi, of which he is the chairman.

He is said to have used RM800,000 of the foundation's money to settle his credit card bills.

Graft busters had grilled Dr Ahmad Zahid four times before he was arrested.

He was called for the first time on July 3 and again last week - on Oct 10, 11 and 12.