KUALA LUMPUR – Former attorney-general Tan Sri Tommy Thomas and ex-Bar president Datuk Ambiga Sreenavasan have been appointed to represent Muda in the party’s bid to get registered with the Registrar of Societies (RoS), three months after it submitted its application.
The agency has been given seven days from today to approve registration for the party led by Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, or face legal action.
In a statement, Muda said it submitted an application to RoS on September 17, but has yet to receive any response.
In contrast, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s Bersatu and Perikatan Nasional had their registrations approved in 30 days and three days, respectively, said Muda.
“Muda is not asking to be given any special treatment, but this delay in registration is totally unacceptable, especially because no reasons were given to reject or delay it during all of Muda and RoS’ communications.
“We leave this issue of party registration to the law, and urge RoS to approve Muda as a legitimate party immediately.”
The statement was released after Syed Saddiq and Muda submitted a legal notice to RoS at its headquarters in Putrajaya today.
About 100 party supporters clad in black Muda T-shirts and holding matching black umbrellas were present outside the building.
A letter of demand submitted by Thomas’ office to RoS said despite having provided all the information requested, the registrar has yet to approve Muda’s application.
It described the delay as “unreasonable, irrational and a breach of Muda’s legitimate expectations to be treated fairly”, ultra vires the Societies Act 1966, and a violation of constitutional rights to form an association.
“The delay hugely prejudices our clients’ right to participate in the nation’s political and democratic process. Without a registered political party, our clients face numerous logistical, financial and legal hurdles in preparing for the next general election.
“This will inevitably result in an uneven playing field for Muda against other established political parties. It also prejudices millions of voters, who will be deprived of voting for the new party.
“Take note that if you do not grant registration to our clients within seven days of the date hereof, our clients will commence legal proceedings against you and the home minister for the necessary relief.” – The Vibes, December 21, 2020
