KUCHING: Respect for democracy includes respect for the rule of law and the independence of the courts, says Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap.
In a statement issued today (Dec 24), Yap said the High Court decision in the defamation suit brought by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian against Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen was the result of a full and lengthy legal process.
He said the case was fully litigated over a period of approximately 60 days, during which numerous witnesses were called and gave evidence, and extensive submissions were made by both parties.
“The decision and findings of the High Court judge were reached only after due consideration of the evidence, testimony, and legal arguments presented throughout the trial.
“It is therefore a judicial determination grounded in facts and law, not a political opinion or administrative action,” he said.
He said framing a concluded High Court judgment within a political narrative could undermine public confidence in the judicial process and blur the distinction between political discourse and legal accountability.
“If Chong disagrees with the findings of the High Court, the Court of Appeal is the proper and lawful forum to challenge that decision.
“Judicial findings are reviewed through legal arguments and evidence on appeal and not through political narratives or shows of support,” he said.
He added that political mobilisation cannot substitute for legal reasoning, just as public sympathy cannot overturn judicial findings.
“At this juncture, the responsible course of action would be for Chong to focus on his appeal and allow the appellate court to review the matter, rather than continuing to politicise a judicial outcome that was reached after a lengthy and fair trial process.
“Sarawakians expect all elected representatives, whether from the government or the opposition to uphold judicial accountability, respect court decisions, and engage the legal process with maturity and integrity,” he added.
