Mahmud Abu Bekir Taib has refused to comment on speculation that he will contest the Balingian state seat which is to be vacated by his father, outgoing Sarawak Chief Minister Abdul Taib Mahmud.

Bekir, 51, was met at the Syariah High Court in Kuala Lumpur today, where there is a contempt proceeding against him.

He wore a face-mask and his bodyguard waved off reporters, telling them to stop posing questions.

Bekir is one of two people tipped to contest the state seat.

The other is Akit Sebli, the former permanent secretary in the state tourism ministry.

While Bekir appears to be the frontrunner, much will depend on his ability to set aside the committal proceedings. Justice Azzeman Omar will deliver his decision on March 6.

If convicted of contempt, Bekir is liable to a RM2,000 fine or up to six months’ jail.