PAS MP Ahmad Fadhli Shaari Denies Allegations of Disrespect Towards the Royal Institution

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 5 — Ahmad Fadhli Shaari, the Member of Parliament for Pasir Mas, has firmly denied claims that his recent social media post was related to the King’s royal decree regarding an upcoming solidarity rally for convicted former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, scheduled to take place in Putrajaya.

The PAS politician's remarks came in response to police reports lodged by the opposition party Amanah, which accused him of showing disrespect towards the royal institution. In a statement shared on Facebook, Fadhli expressed his disappointment at the suggestion that the name of His Majesty, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, should be associated with the issue at hand. He reiterated that there is no indication in the royal decree that forbids the January 6 gathering.

Fadhli made clear that his comments were never intended to undermine the royal institution. He also pointed out the unprofessionalism involved in Amanah's choice of an unflattering photo to accompany their statement, indicating it misrepresented him unjustly.

While acknowledging Amanah's right to file a police report, Fadhli expressed his readiness to face any legal scrutiny that may arise. "I am as ready as any citizen to face the process of justice in this country," he stated confidently.

Reflecting on his past relationships with colleagues in PAS, he mentioned that, despite the tensions, he had no immediate plans to escalate this matter to court. However, he has not completely ruled out the possibility of legal action in the future.

"Some lawyers have suggested that I sue Amanah Youth for their claim that my statements undermine the royal institution. Yet, my post did not contain any statements that could be interpreted as such," he clarified.

He also remarked on his concerns regarding Umno leaders’ interpretations of the royal decree, suggesting that they might be manipulating the message for political gain while overlooking crucial details stated in the decree. Fadhli pointed out that Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh's decision to participate in the solidarity rally contradicted claims of disrespect towards the monarchy, suggesting a division among the party about the implications of the royal decree.

As tensions rise ahead of the rally, the unfolding situation poses questions about the relationship between political entities and the royal institution in Malaysia. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops!

Conclusion

Could this be the beginning of a major political conflict? Only time will tell!