21 February 2020
Media Statement

Correct decision by the AG to drop the LTTE-SOSMA case and PH must continue to stand firm in its promise to reform SOSMA

I welcome and support the decision of the Attorney General, Tan Sri Tommy Thomas, to discontinue the charges against the 12 individuals on trial under the LTTE-SOSMA case.

The family members of those detained and Pakatan Harapan leaders have always maintained that the 12 individuals are not terrorists.

I have previously argued that the police have not disclosed how or what exactly is the “security threat” that required the use of SOSMA against the 12 individuals.

Now, the Attorney General has explained that the cases are dropped because there is no realistic prospect of conviction in the first place. The accused simply had photos of LTTE leaders in their phones and worshipped certain idols.

The Attorney General has made the correct decision in the interest of justice and the rule of law. This is not an easy decision to make because the cases were politically motivated from the start. Therefore, I commend the Attorney General for doing the right thing and not succumbing to undue pressure.

The opposition will definitely continue to turn this into a racial issue to attack the government. The government and Pakatan Harapan must therefore stand firm and be courageous not only to defend the independent decision of the Attorney General, but to fulfil the election manifesto to abolish the draconian provisions in SOSMA.

Khoo Poay Tiong
MP Kota Melaka