Penang BN: Karpal's death a huge loss to nation

GEORGE TOWN: Penang Barisan Nasional (BN) has described former DAP chairman and Bukit Gelugor MP Karpal Singh's (pix) death as a huge loss to the country, particularly to Penang as he was a noted politician and lawyer.
"We are shocked and saddened over his death as he had fought to uphold democratic values and principles despite being physically impaired.
"He was a very vocal person, especially on issues related to rights, political parties, politics and current affairs," he said when contacted today.
Karpal died in a road accident at Km306.1 of the North-South Expressway near Gua Tempurung in Kampar early today. He was 74. Also killed in the 1.10am accident, involving an MPV and a lorry, was Karpal's personal assistant Michael Cornelius, who was in his 40s.
Karpal stepped aside as party chairman temporarily in March, pending his appeal against a sedition conviction.
Meanwhile, Penang Wanita Umno chief Senator Norliza Abdul Rahim described Karpal as a lawyer and parliamentarian of calibre who had contributed to nation-building.
At Karpal's residence in Jalan Utama here, relatives, politicians and the public had gathered since early today.
Karpal's remains are expected to be brought home from the Permaisuri Bainun Hospital, Ipoh after a post-mortem this afternoon. – Bernama