Zahid thanks ‘Allah’ for Yayasal Akalbudi DNAA, but will seek full acquittal
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 4 — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi walked out of the courtroom today feeling thankful that he has one less trial to deal with now.
But he could have also felt frustrated that he was only given a discharge not amounting to an acquittal (DNAA) on all 47 charges for the dishonest misappropriation of RM31 million belonging to his charitable foundation Yayasan Akalbudi.
His emotions were inscrutable beneath the sober but calm face he showed to the media at the court complex lobby here.
“I and all my family members, my children, in-laws and grandchildren, especially my wife, are grateful to Allah because today the court has made the decision that the 47 charges against me have been discontinued,” he said.
He said the trial judge has decided to discharge but not to acquit him.
He thanked all who have supported him and said the struggle will continue.
His lead counsel Datuk Hisyam Teh Poh Teik who stood next to him spoke next.
“My first word would be Alhamdulillah,” Hisyam said.
He added that an appeal will be filed tomorrow at the Court of Appeal against today's decision, as Zahid's legal team will be seeking for a full acquittal of all the 47 charges against Zahid.
MORE TO COME
