Express views on court decisions appropriately, responsibly, FT PKR Youth tells Dr Akmal

PETALING JAYA: Federal Territory PKR Youth slams remarks by Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh on the ruling in Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s house arrest bid, saying it risks undermining public confidence in the courts.

FT PKR Youth chief Asheeq Ali Sethi Alivi said, in a statement Monday (Dec 22), that the court’s ruling resulted from a legitimate legal process and should not be politicised.

“The decision was made by the learned judge after considering arguments from both sides and was carried out strictly according to the law,” he said.

“It is inappropriate to link the ruling to claims that the government had rejected or denied the royal addendum to Najib’s pardon,” he added.

Asheeq also noted that earlier court decisions involving Barisan Nasional leaders had been accepted without similar criticism.

“When BN leaders were discharged and acquitted by the courts, Akmal was able to accept those decisions openly,” he said.

In the statement, FT PKR Youth stressed that differing views on court decisions were normal in a democracy but must be expressed responsibly.

“Disagreement must be conveyed in a measured, factual manner and grounded in an understanding of legal principles.

“Questioning the credibility of the judiciary only when decisions do not favour one’s position is unfair and risks eroding public trust,” he said.

Asheeq added that Najib still had legal avenues to pursue further appeals, cautioning against premature conclusions.

“Speculative accusations will only confuse the public and worsen the situation,” he said.

He also urged all parties to practise political maturity and respect the ongoing legal process.

“Allow the judiciary to perform its role independently to preserve public confidence in the country’s justice system,” he said.

He also called on political leaders, including those in government, to respond to court decisions with restraint and decorum to safeguard political stability and national harmony.

Earlier, in a Facebook post, Dr Akmal had hit out at the High Court ruling and said it was time for Barisan Nasional to “re-evaluate its support for the government and become a dignified Opposition”.