Friday 29 Mar 2024
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KUALA LUMPUR (May 19): The High Court here had today set dates between June and September this year for the trial of former deputy prime minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who is facing corruption, criminal breach of trust (CBT) and money laundering charges involving funds from the Akalbudi Foundation.

High Court judge Collin Lawrence Sequerah had today set the next hearing for June 15-18, followed by July 2-3, 13-14, and 27-30.

The trial will continue on Aug 10-14 and 24-28, followed by Sept 21-25 and 28-30, according to Sequerah.

Today, deputy public prosecutor Lee Keng Fatt told the court that the prosecution still has over 50 witnesses who will confirm certain banking transactions related to the trial.

Ahmad Zahid's lawyer Hisyam Teh Poh Teik had requested two additional members on the defence team, as the court currently allows two members each for the prosecution and defence to ensure proper social distancing.

"We would like to apply for two more lawyers. We will distance ourselves,” Hisyam said.

For now, the judge said, the court will only allow one more person on each side. "We will deal with any other application during the day itself,” he said.

Meanwhile, Ahmad Zahid's application for the return of his passport will be heard on June 19. According to Justice Sequerah, both the prosecution and defence will need to hand in their submissions on the matter on June 12.

Ahmad Zahid, 67, is facing 47 charges — 12 for CBT, eight for corruption and 27 for money laundering involving tens of millions of ringgit of funds belonging Yayasan Akalbudi. 

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