Zahid's VLN 'dark episode': Harapan's silence deafening, says PAS

Summary:

• PAS condemned Pakatan Harapan for not speaking out against the attorney-general’s decision to drop the appeal in Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s corruption case.

• PAS and Bersatu expressed concerns that the decision created a perception of a double standard in the justice system.

• Both parties demanded a clear explanation from the attorney-general to address potential political interference, stressing that without transparency, public trust in Malaysia’s legal system and rule of law could be severely harmed.

PAS has criticised Pakatan Harapan for its silence following the attorney-general’s decision to withdraw the appeal against Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s acquittal in the Foreign Visa System (VLN) corruption case.

“They seem too comfortable calculating political gains from their cushy cabinet positions, forgetting the reform slogans they once championed,” information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari said in a statement.

Describing the move as another “dark episode” in Malaysia’s justice system, Fadhli claimed it created the perception of a double standard.

“If a high-ranking leader can be absolved without a full trial, why must ordinary citizens endure stringent legal processes? Such actions erode public confidence in the judiciary and undermine Article 8 of the Federal Constitution, which guarantees equality before the law,” he argued.

Fadhli also noted that this is the second controversy involving Zahid, referencing the earlier withdrawal of 47 charges in the Yayasan Akalbudi case.

“The withdrawal of this appeal sets a dangerous precedent that could be exploited in the future,” he warned.

The PAS leader demanded clarity on whether the decision was made independently or under external influence.

“This decision further tarnishes Malaysia’s international reputation,” he said.

“Malaysia was once resolute in combating corruption, but this move sends the opposite message. The world is watching,” he added.

Political interference

Echoing similar concerns, Bersatu information chief Tun Faisal Ismail Aziz said the lack of explanation for the withdrawal fosters a negative perception of political interference in legal proceedings.

“This decision has the potential to undermine public trust in the integrity of the Attorney-General’s Chambers and the country’s ability to hold high-ranking individuals accountable under the law,” he added.

He stressed that such actions could also harm Malaysia’s international standing, particularly among foreign investors.

Tun Faisal urged the attorney-general to provide a “detailed and convincing explanation” to the public.

“Transparency and the rule of law are essential to restoring public trust and ensuring that the nation’s legal system is free from any abuse of power,” he stated.

“If this issue is left unresolved without a credible explanation, it will only reinforce the perception that the system is biased and grants privileges to certain groups,” he added.

Last Thursday, the prosecution announced there was no evidence to show Zahid had used his position to award the related contracts.

The prosecution noted that the contracts were awarded before Zahid became home minister, which indicated he did not abuse his power.

Two years ago, the Shah Alam High Court granted Zahid a discharge amounting to an acquittal, citing the prosecution’s failure to establish a prima facie (answerable) case.

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