Opposition leaders, activists charged for sedition in Malaysia

Several Malaysian opposition leaders and activists were charged on Wednesday for sedition after the recent general election, as opposition vowed to continue large protest against alleged electoral fraud.

Opposition People's Justice Party (PKR) vice president Tian Chua were among the five who were brought to a Kuala Lumpur court, where they were charged with allegedly seditious remarks during a political forum on May 13 by calling street protests against the May 5 election results.

If convicted, the group may face fine up to 5000 ringgit, three years behind bars or both. Tian Chua may also see his parliamentary seat deprived. All pleaded not guilty.

Lawyers said they would file applications to the high courts to strike down the charges.

Among the five, Tian Chua and two others were arrested earlier this month but were soon released after a magistrate denied a remand application by police.

The opposition has organized large gathering across the country to protest against the alleged electoral fraud during the general election, in which the ruling coalition regain power with a slimmer majority. The election commission and ruling coalition have urged the opposition to accept the election result or appeal via legal channels.

PKR leaders said Wednesday they will continue protests until their demands are meet, including the resign of the election commission and re-election of more than two dozens parliamentary seats.