Daim files application to challenge validity of MACC charges

PETALING JAYA: Tun Daim Zainuddin has filed an application to challenge the right against self incrimination under Section 36 (2) of the MACC Act 2009.

When contacted, the former finance minister’s lawyer Rajesh Nagarajan confirmed that the application was filed at the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court on Friday (March 15).

His wife Toh Puan Na’imah Abdul Khalid had filed a similar application on March 5.

In his application, Daim said he was charged under Section 36(2) which contravenes with Articles 5 and 8 of the Federal Constitution.

The MACC and the public prosecutor were named as the first and second respondents

On Jan 29, Daim was charged in the Sessions Court for failing to comply with a notice to declare his assets, which include several luxury vehicles, companies and properties in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Pahang, Negri Sembilan, Perak and Kedah.

Earlier, on Jan 23, Na’imah was charged in the same Sessions Court for failing to comply with a notice to declare her assets, which include Menara Ilham and several other properties in Kuala Lumpur and Penang.

Daim, 85, Nai’mah, 66, and their four children, Asnida, 62, Md Wira Dani, 45, Muhammed Amir Zainuddin, 28, and Muhammed Amin Zainuddin, 25, and Ilham Tower Sdn Bhd had applied for leave on Jan 10.