Can Suhakam commissioners contest in elections under current rules?

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Suhakam Commissioners Are Not Barred by Regulation from Contesting in Elections

Current regulations do not prohibit a commissioner of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) from standing as a candidate in an election. This was confirmed following the nomination of Suhakam commissioner Hasnal Rezua Merican Habib Merican by Barisan Nasional (BN) for the Kuang state constituency in the Selangor state election. Lawyers consulted by BN found no existing rules to prevent such a candidacy.
No Regulatory Obstruction for Suhakam Commissioners

The legal review conducted by Barisan Nasional determined that there are no regulations in place that prevent a Suhakam commissioner from participating in elections. This clarification came after BN nominated Hasnal Rezua Merican Habib Merican to contest in the Kuang state seat. BN chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi stated that their legal team had thoroughly examined the matter and found no barring regulations.
Ethical Considerations for Elected Commissioners

While not legally prohibited, it is considered ethically appropriate for a Suhakam commissioner who is elected to withdraw from their commission role. Ahmad Zahid suggested that if Hasnal Rezua Merican is elected to represent the constituents of Kuang, it would be more fitting for him to resign from Suhakam. This would allow him to dedicate his full attention and services to the people he represents.
Background of the Nominated Candidate

Hasnal Rezua Merican Habib Merican is not only a commissioner with Suhakam but also a legal practitioner. His nomination by BN for the Kuang state seat places him in a contest against the incumbent Sallehudin Amiruddin (Independent) and Mohd Rafiq Abdullah (PN-Bersatu). Ahmad Zahid expressed that such a figure, with a background in human rights advocacy and legal practice, should receive support.

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Can Suhakam commissioners contest in elections under current rules?

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