Application to remand Musa denied

KOTA KINABALU: A remand application by the Royal Malaysian Police, after former chief minister Tan Sri Musa Aman's arrest, was denied by Magistrate Norshahirah Abd Salim.

During a two-hour proceeding both sides had put forward persuasive arguments and tendered various documents supporting their respective case before the learned Magistrate made her decision not to allow the said application.

Musa's counsel argued that remand application should not be granted easily as it is a judicial process where the magistrate must consider various factors including whether statutory and legal requirements have been met.

He pointed out that Musa, at all material times, had consistently kept the authorities informed on his whereabouts and has been giving his full cooperation even when he was seeking treatment in the United Kingdom. His travels which have always been through proper and regular channels were made clear to the magistrate and a copy of his travel document was also made available to her. The evidence is clear. “Musa is a citizen of Malaysia and at no material point in time left his beloved country illegally, nor is there any need for him to do so. Any accusations that he left the country illegally or that he is a fugitive or that he absconded, clearly shows the lack of knowledge and education on the part of his accusers,” said Musa's Special Officer, Awang Faisal in a statement yesterday.

Faisal added that Musa intends to be sworn in as required by the Sabah State Constitution and will do so as soon as his medical condition permits.

The Sungai Sibuga assemblyman would also like to reaffirm his faith in the Judiciary, The Royal Malaysian Police and the Immigration Department.

“These legal and quasi-legal bodies are an institution and organizations that are well respected. They must always be allowed to carry out their duties independently and in good faith. They must not be subject to pressures from any person or government, local or foreign. The sanctity of their good office must always be protected,” said Faisal.