Rafizi ordered to enter defence in Umno insult case

PETALING JAYA: PKR strategic director Mohd Rafizi Ramli, who was charged with intentionally insulting and provoking or causing anger towards Umno members through statements in one article, was ordered to enter his defence by the sessions court today.
Sessions court judge Azwarnida Affandi said the prosecution proved a "prima facie" case at the end of its case and the accused is ordered to enter his defence.
Azwarnida read out three options which Rafizi could choose – to give statements from the accused's dock, or testify in the witness box by giving sworn testimony, or remain silent.
Rafizi's lawyer Eric Paulsen said Rafizi will give (sworn) testimony and asked for a date to be fixed.
Azwarnida fixed Aug 20 for Rafizi to enter his defence.
Rafizi, 38, the MP for Pandan, had claimed trial to issuing the statement in an article titled Will Rafizi quit if Selangor is not toppled? with knowledge that it could disrupt the peace.
Rafizi, who was charged on Aug 27, 2014, is alleged to have committed the offence at The Edge Malaysia Communication Sdn Bhd at Level 3, Menara KLK, No.1, Jalan PJU 7/6, Mutiara Damansara, at about 11.40am on Feb 4, 2014.
The charge under Section 504 of the Penal Code, carries a maximum of two years jail or a fine or both, on conviction.
Seven prosecution witnesses testified in the prosecution's case.
DPP Mohd Azari Harun and Suzana Abdul Latiff appeared for the prosecution.