The suspension of four Pakatan Rakyat MPs is an attempt to divert attention from the federal government’s dealing with international public relations firm Apco Worldwide, said Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng.

Lim, who is also the Bagan MP, said that BN had abused its powers by suspending Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim, and three others, to put a lid on their criticisms against the deal.

He adds that Anwar had been treated unfairly because he was punished by the Rights and Privileges Committee without his defence being called.

“The act to suspend Anwar (and others) goes against the principles of natural justice,” he said, after officiating the Penang Trade Events 2011 calendar in Penang today.

“The parliamentary rights and privileges committee has managed to limit the rights of the Opposition Leader to uphold justice and democracy for the people,” he added.

Yesterday, the committee’s report was tabled and endorsed by the Dewan Rakyat over Anwar’s for claiming that the Najib administration had knowingly employed Apco Worldwide despite its alleged links with the Zionist regime.

Bukit Gelugor MP Karpal Singh, Gombak MP Azmin Ali and Subang MP R Sivarasa were also suspended for revealing information about the committee’s investigation before its report was tabled.

Opposition more determined

Lim said that BN conduct was undemocratic, adding that in Pakatan administered states, any opposition member that was hauled up by the respective Rights and Privileges Committee are allowed to defend themselves.

On DAP’s next course of action, Lim said that Karpal, who is a veteran lawyer, will be looking into the legal aspects of the suspension.

He adds that the series of suspensions will not affect the opposition’s spirit nor that of its supporters.

“On the contrary, people will be more committed, determined and will continue the struggle for justice and freedom,” he added.

Meanwhile, Lim extended his condolences to the family of deceased Tenang state assemblyperson Sulaiman Taha .

Asked if DAP would be fielding candidate when a by-election is called, Lim said that the seat will be contested by PAS as in the last general election and declined further comment out of respect for the deceased.