TTF: TTF is made to understand that the abolishment of the death penalty by the Government of Malaysia (GoM) was considered following a discussion that took place between someone associated with Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and former police Special Action Force officer Azilah Hadri.
While it is uncertain at this point in time if Tun himself spoke to Azilah, several people who claim to be in the know seem dead sure that the Prime Minister himself negotiated a deal with Azilah, promising the latter that he would be spared the gallows should certain conditions be met.
Azilah Hadri, who is on the death row for the murder of a Mongolian woman, Altantuya Shaariibuu, has been waiting for more than two years for a hearing on his plea for clemency.
Earlier today, Mahathir announced that the GoM is still studying the views of family members of several high profile murder cases that the death penalty should not be abolished as it prevents serious crimes.
KOTA BARU: The Government is still studying the views of family members of several high profile murder cases that the death penalty should not be abolished as it prevents serious crimes.
Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad said such study was necessary to ensure the genuineness of the family’s claims.
He said the Government could not make the assessment unless research proved that the abolition of the death penalty would increase serious crimes.
“We take seriously their claim on the issue and will review it soon,” he said.
Dr Mahathir, who is also Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (PPBM) chairman, said this at a Press conference after attending a gathering and dialogue session with Pakatan Harapan (PH) party component leaders here today.
It was reported yesterday that family members of several high profile murder cases had urged the Government not to abolish death penalty in orer to prevent serious crimes.
They were Datuk Sosilawati Lawiya’s eldest daughter, Erni Dekritawati Yuliana Buhari, better known as Rita; Datuk Anthony Kevin Morais’ younger brother Datuk Richard Morais, and HSBC banker Stephen Wong Jing Kui’s elder sister, Wong Hie Huong.
They also shared the challenges they had gone through during the trial.
On Oct 27, NSTP reported that the government had yet to finalise decision to abolish the death sentence.
Home Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said the ministry was still seeking consultation and feedback from various parties before it was tabled to the Cabinet.
Source: NST Online
