Accra: The Judicial and Legal Service Officers’ Association (JALSOA) has described the Federal Court’s ruling to uphold the convictions and sentences of those responsible for the murder of Datuk Anthony Kevin Morais as a great relief and a testament to justice being served.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the association stated that the ruling was significant not only for the late Morais and his family but also for all members of the judiciary and legal fraternity who uphold the rule of law without compromise. This tragic incident highlights the challenges faced by legal officers, particularly deputy public prosecutors, in their duties to uphold truth and justice despite constant risks and threats.
JALSOA emphasized that despite concerns over the recurrence of such incidents, legal officers in the judicial and legal services will remain firm in their commitment to uphold the supremacy of the Federal Constitution and the rule of law. The association also expressed appreciation to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) for conducting a thorough investigation and to the team of deputy public prosecutors from the Attorney General’s Chambers for their professionalism and diligence throughout the proceedings.
The association paid tribute to the late Datuk Anthony Kevin Morais, acknowledging that his contributions and spirit continue to inspire and uphold the principles of justice. The Federal Court’s decision to uphold the death sentence for Colonel Dr R. Kunaseegaran, while commuting the sentences for S. Nimalan and S. Ravi Chandran, demonstrates a measured approach to justice.
The court sentenced Nimalan to 35 years in prison with 12 strokes of the cane, while Ravi Chandran received a 40-year jail term, exempted from whipping due to his age. Chief Justice Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat affirmed Kunaseegaran’s death sentence, noting his withdrawal of the appeal against it, while also discharging and acquitting three other individuals involved in the case.
Morais, who was reported missing in September 2015, was last seen leaving his apartment in Kuala Lumpur. His body was tragically found in a cement-filled oil drum later that month.