KUALA LUMPUR: Kijal assemblyman Datuk Razali Idris has been fined RM2,000 by the Sessions Court here for a seditious statement he made at a political rally three years ago.
Sessions Court judge Norma Ismail made the decision here on Monday after ruling that Razali's defence had failed to raise a reasonable doubt in the prosecution's case.
She also ordered Razali to serve three months in jail if he fails to pay the fine.
Earlier, deputy public prosecutor Izzat Amir Idham proposed prison time for sentencing.
However, Razali's lawyer Awang Armadajaya Awang Mahmud sought for the politician to be fined instead of serving prison time.
"Imprisonment will result in him losing his seat, and a by-election would have to take place.
"This would cost a lot of parties, including the government's expenses," he said.
On Nov 24, 2023, Razali, who was a former Bersatu information chief, claimed trial to a sedition charge over his claim that a particular court case was under the control of the government.
He was accused of committing the offence at Padang Astaka Chukai, Kemaman, Terengganu, between 9.30pm and 11.30pm on Nov 10, 2023.
He was charged under Section 4(1)(b) of the Sedition Act 1948, which carries a maximum of three years in jail or up to RM5,000 fine or both, if convicted.
