“Hadi isn’t a fit Muslim leader to implement Islamic laws. To implement Islamic laws, one must be a man of honour and integrity. Unfortunately, we don’t have a leader like that.”
Zaid was speaking to a crowd of about 200 people in a counter rally organised by a group of activists, called Bebas. The purpose of the rally was to protest against PAS’ proposed amendments to strengthen the shariah courts.
Zaid, who last week joined DAP, said that shariah courts in the country must first ensure efficiency in its present system before deciding to increase its sentences.
He pointed out that there were many flaws in the present shariah courts system.
“How many prosecuting officers do they have? Two or three?
“What if the people get arrested? Who is going to conduct investigations? Definitely not the police because they are bound under the policing act.
“So tell me, how does the shariah courts have the appropriate system?”
The private member’s bill to amend the Syariah Courts (Criminal Jurisdiction) Act 1965 (Act 355), which was tabled by Hadi last year, aims to increase the current penalties for certain shariah offences, including raising the current jail term to 30 years, a fine of up to RM100,000 and up to 100 strokes of the cane.
Presently, the shariah criminal punishment is capped at three years’ in prison, RM5,000 fine and six strokes of the cane.
“I also want to remind Muslim MPs, if you are truly a Muslim, then fight for what is just.”
He then pointed out that PAS’ intentions to implement its proposed shariah amendments, was simply to gain political mileage, as the Islamist party is already losing popularity in Kelantan.
“This is politics. He (Hadi) has to save the state seats. But he will lose and I can guarantee that,” Zaid said.
He also praised the non-Muslims for showing up at the Bebas counter rally today, and urged them to reject MPs who are in support of PAS’ proposed amendments.
“I’m happy that non-Muslims are taking up this issue because this is our country,” he said while receiving a round of applause from the participants.
“The people must make sure to reject any MPs who supports this bill. Enough of this nonsense.
“If the MPs are afraid of losing votes, then do the right thing.”