THERE were a total of 18 cases of prominent figures granted a discharge not amounting to an acquittal (DNAA) between 2017 and 2024, the House was told.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said (pic) said 2020 and 2023 had the highest numbers with five DNAA cases each.
She said the DNAAs were in accordance with Article 145(3) of the Federal Constitution, which stipulates that the Attorney General shall have the power to commence, conduct or discontinue any proceeding for an offence, other than proceedings before the Syariah court, children’s court or military court.
She said this in a written reply to Datuk Mumtaz Md Nawi (PN-Tumpat), who wanted to know the number of VIP/VVIPs granted a DNAA over the past five years and the steps taken to enhance transparency in the legal process.
Azalina said the AG could use his discretion based on evidence from law enforcement agencies, as well as new developments and evidence that emerged during the trial.
She also said the government had introduced the AI Legal Justice 2025 to adopt the use of artificial intelligence in the legal sector and legal services involving agencies under the ministry.
“This will enhance access to justice and improve the efficiency of agency work processes,” she added.
