Law fraternity remembers Karpal

GEORGE TOWN: Those at the packed Penang High Court public gallery laughed as Judicial Commissioner Collin Lawrence Sequerah recalled memories of the late Karpal Singh during a reference service held today.

He recalled a case, when he was still with the Bar, and was the co-counsel of Karpal and appeared in chambers minus the noted lawyer.

Sequerah said the judge at that time had recommended a charge to be amended but the deputy public prosecutor (DPP) refused to budge on the matter.

"The doors to the chambers were flung open and Karpal walked in.

"The DPP then said the suggestion by the judge had merit," he said, as those in attendance broke out laughing.

Also presiding over the service to formally enter Karpal's record into the archives of the court was Penang High Court Judge Datuk Mohd Zaki Md Yasin.

Present were the family of the late DAP national chairman, Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng and family lawyer Datuk K. Kumaraendran.

Bar Council president Steven Thiru, Penang Bar Committee chairman N. Shyama and Zaharuddin Mohamed Isa representing the Attorney General's Chambers also attended.

Karpal, the former Bukit Gelugor MP, died in a traffic accident on April 17, 2014 near Gua Tempurung, Kampar, on the North South Expressway.

His passing was mourned by many while thousands turned up for his funeral to pay their last respects to the man who was widely known for his fight for justice and human rights.

In his reference, Mohd Zaki said Karpal's career could only be described as "legendary" and said he had all the qualities one needed as an advocate.

"He will be remembered for his generosity, candour and compassion," he said.

In his reference, Steven said the reference ceremony was unique to the legal profession and a solemn and meaningful one.

"It is a time when the Bar recognises, as a matter of formal record, one of our very own who is no longer with us," he said.

Kumaraendran said Karpal was a dear friend and said he excelled in criminal work with his services sought by many.

"He took on many cases and did not have any hesitation acting for all clients as his duty and obligation was to the rights of the accused person and to that of justice," he said.

Shyama said Karpal never backed down or compromised on his beliefs as he was clear in his ideas.

"He was tenacious when defending his pet causes, human rights and the spirit embodied in the Federal Constitution," she said.