Rafizi appeals against conviction for insulting Umno members

Pandan MP Rafizi Ramli who was fined RM1,800 for insulting Umno members has filed an appeal to set aside the sentence and conviction, lawyer Eric Paulsen said. He said the notice appeal was filed on February 5. Paulsen said he was orally informed that the prosecution had also appealed to enhance Rafizi's sentence. "However, we have yet to receive anything officially," the lawyer told The Malaysian Insider today. On January 26, Sessions Court Judge Azwarnida Afandi said the prosecution had proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt. Rafizi was the only defence witness. The PKR secretary-general had intentionally insulted Umno members with knowledge that it could disturb public peace through a statement in an article entitled "Will Rafizi quit if Selangor is not toppled". He commited the offence at The Edge Malaysia Communication Sdn Bhd at Menara KLK, Jalan PJU 7/6, Mutiara Damansara, at 11.40am on February 4, 2014. But he managed to keep his seat as the fine was below RM2,000 and with no jail term. The charge, under Section 504 of the Penal Code, carries a maximum imprisonment of two years or fine (at the discretion of the court) , or both upon conviction. An elected representative risk losing his seat if he is sentenced to a fine of RM2,000 and above, or a prison term of more than one year and has not received a pardon. – February 17, 2016.]]>