KOTA KINABALU: All peaceful assemblies be temporarily put on hold until the inquest proceedings are fully completed.
The lawyers representing the family of the late Zara Qairina Mahathir said that this aligned with the wishes of Zara’s mother.
“We are deeply grateful for the public’s support through the peaceful solidarity gathering, ‘Justice For Zara,’ and for the financial contributions that helped cover the costs of appointing experts from various fields for our client,” the lawyers said in a joint statement.
The statement was issued by Rizwandean M Borhan, Shahlan Jufri, Mohd Syarulnizam Mohd Salleh, Mohd Luqman Syazwan Zabidi, Farrah Nasser, and Elhanan James.
They also urged the public to exercise caution when posting criticisms or comments on social media regarding the inquest proceedings and evidence presented.
The lawyers said that several people had already been arrested and charged in connection with speeches at the gathering or online comments linked to the Justice For Zara movement.
“We and our client do not wish for Zara’s name or the movement’s slogan to be tarnished by the actions of irresponsible parties. It is crucial to avoid risks of sub judice and interference in the course of the inquest proceedings,” the statement said.
They added that solidarity gatherings could resume once the inquest had been fully completed.
“For now, let us allow the court to carry out its duties. With patience and trust in the judicial process, the truth will emerge and justice will be served.”
Zara’s 17-day inquest began on Sept 3. On its seventh day yesterday, six witnesses were called and the scene was visited.
Proceedings are set to resume next Wednesday, with two witnesses — a child and a medical doctor — expected to testify.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
