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Monday, January 10,
2000
Rais: More prosecutors soonMove to combat defamation, sedition and false newsJELEBU: The Government will appoint more experienced and qualified prosecutors in an effort to combat defamation, seditious ceramahs and distribution of false news. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Dr Rais Yatim said the appointments would be made as soon as possible. "The Government has to implement this measure because irresponsible quarters have continued distributing false news, committing defamation and giving seditious ceramahs." Dr Rais said the filling of vacancies for prosecutors at federal and state levels would expedite the handling of these cases. "Thus, I believe irresponsible parties would be more respectful of the law and would not repeat the behaviour," he said. "We don't want such behaviour to become a culture in our society as it could affect the harmony of the people," he told reporters at his Hari Raya open house yesterday. Dr Rais said those found guilty could be punished under the Penal Code, Sedition Act and Printing Act. He said that cases relating to defamation, sedition and distribution of false news were handled by the Attorney-General without the government's intervention. "That is provided for under Article 145 of the Federal Constitution. "However, many are confused over the matter because they are influenced by false news. Prosecuting is the A-G's job and not the government's," he said. |
