Anwar’s RM100m defamation suit against Khairy goes to trial

 

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 20 — Umno Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin failed to strike out a RM100m defamation suit filed by Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today at the High Court here.

Khairy was ordered by High Court judge Hue Siew Kheng to pay in addition to the unsuccessful application RM7,000 in costs to Anwar.

She ruled after meeting both parties in chambers, The Star Online reported.
Khairy (picture) was represented by lead counsel Datuk Seri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah facing Sulaiman Abdullah and J. Leela for Anwar.

Muhammad Shafee told court reporters that the application was not clear enough for a strike out, therefore a full trial will ensue.

However the defence lawyer will appeal today’s ruling.

The suit claims Khairy uttered defamatory words, which were then posted on websites, including in news portal Malaysiakini.com — a video clip titled “Anwar and kin no threat”. It was filed on March 7, 2008.

Khairy’s failed application was made on February 21 on grounds that the suit was frivolous, vexatious and an abuse of the court process.

The youth leader’s statement of defence on October 8 relied justification and qualified privilege.


- TMI