Police in Negeri Sembilan have opened investigations into Perikatan Nasional election director Sanusi Nor and Rembau Umno information chief Shukri Shamsuddin over controversial remarks during the state election campaign, citing violations of the Penal Code and Communications Act.
State police chief Datuk Alzafny Ahmad confirmed that investigations are underway against Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor and Rembau Umno leader Shukri Shamsuddin following reports of inflammatory remarks during the Negeri Sembilan state election campaign. The police have initiated proceedings under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which address statements conducive to public mischief and improper use of network facilities, respectively.
Investigations Under Multiple Legal Frameworks
The police have received two reports against Sanusi Nor, who is alleged to have suggested that Malaysia’s ethnic groups could fall back on ancestral homelands outside the country.
Alzafny Ahmad, the state police chief, stated that investigations are ongoing, with statements already recorded from several witnesses. We have already recorded statements from several individuals and expect to call in the PAS leader in the near future to complete our probe,
he said, as reported by The Star. The police have also sought assistance from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission to examine the relevant material and support the investigations.
Campaign Materials and Royal Institution Controversies
The Negeri Sembilan palace has denied any political involvement, with Comptroller of the Royal Household Datuk Azizi Mohamad Ali urging candidates to avoid dragging the monarchy into their campaigns. The royal institution always upholds the principle of neutrality,
he stated, according to The Star. This clarification came after allegations that certain parties were attempting to influence the palace’s stance during the election period.
Next Steps and Election Context
Police have indicated that Sanusi Nor and Shukri Shamsuddin will be summoned for questioning. At this stage, we have yet to record his statement, but action will be taken,
Alzafny said, per NST. The investigations are part of a broader crackdown on election-related offenses, with 16 investigation papers opened for various violations, including 11 linked to Shukri Shamsuddin’s remarks, as noted by Newswav.
The Negeri Sembilan state election, with general polling scheduled for July 28, has seen heightened scrutiny over campaign conduct. Early voting involved 5,455 police officers, with smooth operations reported by Alzafny. The Election Commission has emphasized the need for all parties to adhere to the law, with warnings against spreading fake news or seditious remarks.
Implications for the Election
The cases against Sanusi and Shukri Shamsuddin highlight the delicate balance between free speech and election integrity in Malaysia. Sanusi, a key figure in Perikatan Nasional, faces potential legal consequences for remarks that could be seen as divisive. Meanwhile, Shukri’s alleged statements about the palace risk further complicating the already tense political landscape in Negeri Sembilan.
As the election approaches, the police’s actions underscore the government’s commitment to maintaining order. However, the outcome of these investigations could influence voter perceptions and party strategies. With 103 candidates vying for 36 state seats, the resolution of these cases may play a critical role in shaping the final electoral narrative.
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