PN files judicial review to quash RoS notices

Perikatan Nasional (PN) has initiated a judicial review to contest two notices issued by the Registrar of Societies (RoS) against the coalition, according to PN secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan. The application was submitted at the Kuala Lumpur High Court by the secretaries-general of PN's component parties, with RoS director-general Zulkifar Ahmad and home minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail as respondents.

The request includes a certificate of urgency to expedite the hearing on PN's standing as a registered political coalition.

The application challenges two orders, known as certiorari, seeking to quash the notices. The first notice, dated September 22, under Section 13(2) of the Societies Act 1966, demands PN's explanation to RoS regarding the consideration of deregistering PN. The second notice seeks a declaration that the notice under Section 13(2A) suspending all PN activities until further notice is invalid.

At a press conference in Parliament, Takiyuddin also expressed PN's desire for an official clarification from RoS regarding the coalition's eligibility to field candidates, particularly in upcoming elections, such as the Melaka state election. Additionally, he sought clarification on the complaint raised by Bersatu, as PN was only aware of it through media reports, although Bersatu is part of PN.

RoS suspended PN following a complaint from Bersatu, effective September 23, to protect PN's interests and prevent further rule violations, as stated by RoS. Takiyuddin speculated that political pressure might have influenced the suspension.