Justice Aslam Zainuddin made the ruling after deputy public prosecutor Masri Daud informed the court that the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) had accepted Sanusi’s representations.
The prosecution had sought a discharge not amounting to acquittal (DNAA).
However, the judge acquitted Sanusi after the defence argued that would be the proper order since the prosecution had expressed its intention not to pursue the case.
“When the prosecution expressed its intention not to proceed with the charge, it meant the charge was halted but a DNAA does not reflect its intention.
“If the intention is to halt the charge, it is fair for my client to be acquitted,” said Sanusi’s lawyer, Awang Armadajaya Awang Mahmud.
With the acquittal, Sanusi has been freed from all charges of making seditious remarks about the rulers levelled at him in 2023.
He was charged with making seditious statements against the Selangor ruler, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, and Al-Sultan Abdullah at a ceramah in Gombak on July 11, 2023.
The remarks were made when Sanusi spoke of the manner in which the Selangor menteri besar was appointed and the unity government formed following state and federal elections.
Both charges were brought under Section 4(1)(a) of the Sedition Act 1948, which provides for a fine of up to RM5,000, imprisonment of up to three years, or both, upon conviction.
On Dec 10 last year, Sanusi was acquitted of the charge related to his remarks against the Selangor sultan after the AGC accepted his earlier representations.
It followed his apology to Sultan Sharafuddin, which the sultan accepted in the spirit of Islamic brotherhood and solidarity in the Malay community.
Outside the court, Awang told reporters that Sanusi was no longer restricted by the gag order imposed in July 2023 to prevent him from discussing the case.
“The gag order was lifted following the acquittal, so my client is no longer restricted,” he said.
Sanusi meanwhile expressed his appreciation to the sultans of Selangor and Pahang and thanked the people for their support.