SHAH ALAM, 28 Aug: The Vice President of Parti Kedilan Rakyat (PRK), Rafizi Ramli, pleaded not guilty to the charges of issuing a statement that defamed and provoked members of Umno today.
The Member of Parliament for Pandan was accused of the offense at the Petaling Jaya Sessions Court through a statement linking the party with the incident where Molotov cocktails were thrown at a church in February.
He allegedly committed the offense under Section 504 of the Penal Code; deliberately provoking with intent to stifle dissent.
If found convicted, Rafizi faces two years imprisonment, a fine of RM4,000 or both.
Citing Malaysia Kini, Sessions Court Judge Abu Bakar Manat allowed Rafizi to be released on bail of RM2,000 with one guarantor.
He also set September 30 for the trial.
Rafizi was represented by Eric Paulsen, Sheeraj Bhar and N.Surendran, while the prosecution was conducted by the Deputy Prosecutor Mohd Azari Harun.
When met by reporters, Rafizi said that he paid bail and that the accusation was designed to be imposed on politicians from Pakatan Rakyat.
“I’m very concerned that the Attorney-General is being creative by using laws we have not really heard of to crush dissent in public space.
He also said that charges were funny because PKR is trying to provoke Umno members.
“I can’t help but laugh. I was accused of provoking Umno members.
“That is exactly what we are doing. It is our job to provoke Umno members.
“After this, it is easy for anyone who does not agree with any statement to lodge a police report,” he said.
NS