RCI for Teoh Beng Hock a MUST!

Teoh Beng Hock's sudden death case is not and should not become a political tool for any parties. The Teoh family deserves to know the truth and the real reason which led to his sudden demise.

Hence, we should be surprised if there has been a lot of criticism of the AG's Chambers who are assisting in the inquest of Teoh Beng Hock, over a sudden appearance of a mysterious note which can provide an insight to the political aide's state of mind before his death.

Rightly the Bar Council has called for the setting up of a Royal Commission of Enquiry, to not only investigate the death but also the shortcomings within the criminal justice system. The government has NO CHOICE but to set up a RCI to investigate a gross misconduct of justice here.

"We are disappointed with the Attorney General Chambers which has withheld a crucial document from the Coroner's Court. The suppression of evidence particularly in such a high profile matter, is disturbing regardless of the reason," said Bar Council chairman Ragunath in a statement.

"This action is indicative of a serious lapse of judgment and undermines the proceeding of the inquest."

He added that a fundamental tenet in a criminal matter is that all evidence must be disclosed, and made accessible to all parties, including evidence which could also be detrimental to their case.

Teoh's case has become a hot potato for the ruling government because he was an aide to a state DAP lawmaker/exco in Selangor. The BN government had insisted that it did not play a role in the MACC investigation of the late Teoh.

As such, BN politicians should not and must not be too quick to defend the AG or MACC on their ineptness. Doing so would only create a perception that these agencies are acting in cahoot with the politicians. As the ruling government, they should play a role to facilitate the process of justice.

Both agencies should be well trained to handle such evidence. As Ragunath said, the suppression of evidence in such a high profile case is totally unacceptable. Someone must take responsibility for the abuse of justice.

Why tender the 'note' only now? Why not at the early stage of inquest?

Is the AG convinced that the note is genuine?

Malaysians must rally to ensure that this country and its institutions do not stray from their original purpose.

Politicians must be taught to respect democracy and independence of public institutions.