The Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (BERSIH) refers to the decision of the High Court that allowed Najib Razak’s application to prohibit the media from covering the proceedings of his application for leave to file judicial review with regards to the existence of an alleged Addendum or additional Order by the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong for the former Prime Minister to undergo a six-year house arrest.

BERSIH asserts that, given the high-profile of the person involved in this case and nature of this case which involves public interest and public funds, as previously decided by the Federal Court, it is necessary for it to be conducted openly and transparently for public knowledge.

At the same time, BERSIH also questions why the Deputy Public Prosecutor’s Office (DPP) did not object to the application (to prohibit media from covering the court proceedings), and is of the view that they should explain to the public their reasons for not objecting.

Proceedings of such high-profile cases should be transparent and open because the public have the right to know the true status of the case. If it’s not, it may give rise to perceptions of double standards that can erode public confidence in the government and our justice institutions.

BERSIH once again emphasizes that the principles of equal justice and transparency must always be upheld as the main principles to preserve the justice system and the rule of law in our country.

Released by:
The Steering Committee of BERSIH