AG must explain reasons for Zahid's DNAA in interest of accountability, says Loke

KUALA LUMPUR: For the sake of justice and accountability, the Attorney General should explain the factors that led to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's discharge not amounting to an acquittal (DNAA), said Anthony Loke.

In a statement Tuesday (Sept 5), the DAP secretary-general said the party had taken note of the critical views from various parties and the public on the Kuala Lumpur High Court's decision to grant a DNAA on the 47 charges involving Ahmad Zahid.

Loke said the request from the prosecution to end the proceedings while conducting a more detailed investigation is at the discretion of the Attorney General and decided by the court.

"While DAP respects the court's process and decision, for the sake of justice and accountability, the Attorney General should provide an explanation regarding the factors that led to the decision.

"This explanation is important to ensure that the confidence of the public and the international community in the country's legal system is always maintained.

"We (DAP) will always uphold the principle of separation of powers between the judicial, executive (government) and legislative branches and ensure that there is no executive interference in any court case," he said.

On Monday (Sept 4), the High Court granted a DNAA against Ahmad Zahid for all 47 graft charges involving Yayasan Akalbudi funds.

Justice Datuk Collin Lawrence Sequerah, in his judgement, said the extended time needed for investigation was justifiable as the representations submitted by the defence had taken up hundreds of pages for examinations by the prosecution.