Zahid's special treatment to visit jailed Najib unfair, says lawyer's group

SHAH ALAM - Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah has come under criticism for the special treatment given to visit former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak in Kajang prison.

Lawyers for Liberty (LFL) executive director Zaid Malek said the special treatment given to Najib is a disgrace under under Article 8 of the Federal Constitution on equality.

"Such provision for Najib and other VIP prisoners is almost unheard of.

"The government entrusted with upholding the Constitution must answer how such matters are justified," he said.

In his closing speech at the Umno General Assembly on Saturday, Zahid said that he and Shamsul brought Najib's favourite food during their visit to the former prime minister. He also said they had a half-hour breakfast together.

Zahid further said he spent 90 minutes alone with Najib.

Zaid said other inmates were forced to struggle towards getting proper medical treatment or a temporary release due to the loss of a loved one.

He further said the treatment of certain inmates was appalling and inhuman.

Zaid also called on Putrajaya to grant visits by friends and families of other inmates, similar to what was given to Najib.

Pejuang Information chief Muhammad Rafique Rashid Ali questioned the visit and the special treatment given to Najib.

"Many questions arose. Among the most important is how was the meeting approved?

"Additionally, can a meeting last for two hours? Wasn't the maximum time allotted 45 minutes? How can they make a mini banquet in prison?" he questioned.

Rafique said meeting an inmate in prison should be limited to family, lawyers and authorities.

"Shouldn't it be exclusively given to family members during festive seasons?