AGC defends Zahid's DNAA after review filed, pledges full cooperation

The Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) stated that its decision to apply for a discharge not amounting to an acquittal (DNAA) for Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi on graft charges linked to Yayasan Akalbudi funds was “in strict compliance with the law.”

In a statement, the AGC explained that its DNAA application on Zahid’s 47 charges of criminal breach of trust, corruption, and money laundering on Sept 4, 2023, was based on the circumstances at the time, including the need for further investigations.

The statement came in response to a Free Malaysia Today report noting that lawyer Syed Amir Syakib Arsalan Syed Ibrahim had filed a judicial review application seeking, among other things, a mandamus order to compel the attorney-general and prosecutors to complete their investigation and review concerning the DNAA.

The AGC said the judicial review application raises questions regarding the progress and outcome of the investigations referenced at the time of the DNAA application.

“We are mindful that the matter involves significant questions regarding public confidence and the proper administration of justice,” it said.

The AGC added that, as the case is now before the court, it would not be making further statements on the merits of the application.

“The chambers will cooperate fully with the judicial process, address this matter through the prescribed legal channels, and comply with any court orders or decisions,” the statement added.

Syed Amir clarified that his application “did not challenge the attorney-general’s discretion to apply for a DNAA nor did it seek to predetermine any prosecutorial outcome.”

“Instead, it seeks clarity, accountability, and timely resolution following the reasons that were publicly advanced to justify the DNAA, namely that further and more comprehensive investigations were required,” he added.

On Sept 4, 2023, the High Court granted Zahid a DNAA on 47 charges of criminal breach of trust, corruption, and money laundering involving Yayasan Akalbudi funds.

Judge Collin Lawrence Sequerah, now a Federal Court judge, made the ruling after the prosecution informed the court that the AGC intended to discontinue proceedings against him.

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