July 19 court mention of Tian Chua’s sedition trial

(NST) – The Sessions Court fixed July 19 for mention of PKR vice-president Tian Chua’s sedition case over his statements in relation to the intrusion in Lahad Datu.

Judge Norsharidah Awang set the date yesterday after deputy public prosecutor Mohd Farizul Hassan Al-Bakri informed the court that Tian Chua’s application to strike out the charge would be heard on July 4 at the High Court.

Tian Chua was represented by counsel Michelle Yesudas.

Tian Chua, 50, had on March 14 pleaded not guilty to accusing Umno of being behind the Lahad Datu intrusion. He was charged with making statements that:

THE shooting in Lahad Datu was believed to be a conspiracy by the Umno government to divert attention and intimidate the people;

THE incident had raised many questions and doubts as a drama staged by the Umno government;

THE intrusion in Lahad Datu was a drama by the government to intimidate the people and make it seem like Sabah was not peaceful; and,

THERE was a conspiracy by the Umno government to divert the attention of Sabahans, particularly over the issuance of identity cards to foreigners.

Tian Chua allegedly committed the offence at No. 62-2-A, Fraser Business Park, off Jalan Metro Pudu, Jalan Loke Yew, here at 11am on March 1. The offence carries a maximum fine of RM5,000 or jail of not more than three years or both.