GEORGE TOWN: The fate of PKR’s Pantai Jerejak assemblyman Fahmi Zainol as state executive councillor hangs in the balance following his suspension from all party posts pending the disposal of his court case.
Speculation is rife that Penang PKR deputy chairman Goh Choon Aik could replace him as state agrotechnology, food security and cooperative development committee chairman.
Goh, 52, the Bukit Tambun assemblyman since 2018, was also Seberang Perai city councillor from 2008 to 2010.
The registered town planner declined to comment when contacted, texting only a “keep quiet” emoji.
On Sunday, PKR secretary-general Fuziah Salleh said Fahmi was suspended with immediate effect after being charged at the Magistrate’s Court here with voluntarily causing hurt to his wife.
She said a letter would be sent to Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow regarding Fahmi’s position in the state exco line-up.
Last Friday, Fahmi, 35, claimed trial to a charge of voluntarily causing hurt to Nur Hidayah Abd Jabar, 35, at a house in Persiaran Pantai Jerejak 11, Bayan Lepas, at about 10pm on Feb 22.
The charge was framed under Section 323 of the Penal Code, read together with Section 326A. Section 323 carries a maximum penalty of a year’s jail, fine of up to RM2,000, or both, upon conviction.
Section 326A provides for up to twice the term prescribed under Section 323 if the victim is a spouse. Fahmi was released on bail.
Following this, Chow said Fahmi would continue carrying out his duties without taking leave, on the grounds that he was innocent until proven guilty.
