Not every criticism warrants legal action, says Rafizi

Bersama chief Rafizi Ramli argued that not every criticism of politicians merits legal action. In his latest "Yang Berhenti Menteri" podcast, the leader asserted that politicians should be prepared to respond to questions and disputes rather than immediately resorting to lawsuits. Rafizi noted that while individuals have the right to sue over defamatory statements, they should also engage in open dialogue.

He cited a recent legal dispute between Umno secretary-general Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki and several social media accounts over allegations linking him to the Tabung Haji controversy. Dusuki sought RM5 million in defamation compensation, but Rafizi cautioned that such legal actions could lead politicians down a "rabbit hole," with each lawsuit potentially leading to a cascade of others.

The Bersama leader emphasized that he typically avoided taking critics to court due to the time commitment and potential fallout for ordinary citizens. An exception, Rafizi conceded, was his defamation suit against rapper Ariz Ramli, known as Caprice, as the accusations against him were baseless and malicious. Bersama's decision to unveil shadow candidates for the Melaka state election early aimed to curb corruption in the selection process, Rafizi explained.

By allowing party members to choose candidates rather than relying on the president's discretion, the party seeks to build a culture of transparency and fairness, although safeguards against money politics and coercion would be necessary.