Nor said the RM2,000 fine imposed on Razali on a sedition charge did not trigger the constitutional provision on disqualification.

“In general, the constitution provides that a representative can be disqualified if sentenced to imprisonment for more than 12 months or fined more than RM2,000.

“However, in this case, the court imposed a fine of exactly RM2,000. Based on the literal interpretation of the provision, Razali’s position as Kijal assemblyman remains,” Bernama reported him as saying.

Earlier today, Razali, who is also a state executive councillor, withdrew his appeal against his conviction and fine after he was found guilty of issuing a seditious statement in a by-election speech three years ago.

Razali, a former Bersatu information chief, had claimed that the outcome of a court case was controlled by the government.