Case still not over, Rafizi can appeal - Azmin Ali

Rafizi Ramli, who was sentenced to 18 months jail for two charges under the Official Secrets Act (OSA) 1972, is not 'fully guilty' as he can still pursue his case in the court of appeals, said Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali.

The PKR deputy president who is also Selangor Menteri Besar said, one is not found completely guilty unless an appeal has been filed.

"I believe the lawyers will submit an appeal on the decision which would allow Rafizi to defend himself. This is not the final decision. He can go to the appeals court to seek justice and that is allowed by law," Azmin told reporters at the Parliament lobby on Monday.

"'I'm confident that Rafizi had already presented clear arguments and evidences stating his actions were not intended to threaten national security but rather to expose financial management that could jeopardise the nation's economy.

"The sentencing does not necessarily mean Rafizi is guilty. It is not the final decision. Only the Court of Appeal can decide if he is guilty or not," Azmin said.

Rafizi has been found guilty by the Sessions Court over charges of unauthorised possession of the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) audit report and exposing it to the media.

The Pandan MP was accused of possessing Page 98 of the 1MDB audit report without approval at the Parliament lobby in Jalan Parliament at 3pm on March 24 this year.

He was also accused of exposing the contents of the page at a press conference on March 28.

Rafizi was charged under the OSA which carries a maximum jail term of seven years, upon conviction.

Justice Zulqarnian Hassan said the sentences will be carried out concurrently.

Meanwhile, Azmin also said the conviction of the PKR vice president who is also party secretary-general, will not weaken the party.

On the contrary, he said, the court’s decision would enhance the party's strength and is confident Rafizi will be freed from the charges.