Why does Syed Saddiq’s defence seek Rafiq’s full MACC statement?

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Syed Saddiq's Defence Seeks Full MACC Statement to Identify Discrepancies for Witness Impeachment

Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman's defence team is seeking access to the entirety of star witness Rafiq Hakim Razali's statement recorded by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC). The primary objective is to identify and highlight potential contradictions between Rafiq's written statement to the MACC and his oral testimony presented in court, which could form the basis for impeaching his credibility as a witness. This marks the second attempt by the defence to impeach Rafiq, following an earlier request that was denied.
Defence Suspects Discrepancies in Witness Testimony

The defence has expressed a strong suspicion that Rafiq's testimony in court contains discrepancies when compared to his prior statement given to the MACC. Lawyer Gobind Singh Deo indicated to the High Court that this "hunch" necessitates a thorough examination of the full MACC statement. The defence's strategy involves presenting the court with specific portions they believe are contradictory, while requesting that the unhighlighted parts remain redacted, allowing the judge to determine which sections are relevant for impeachment proceedings.
Previous Impeachment Attempt Was Unsuccessful

This current effort represents the second occasion the defence has moved to impeach Rafiq. Their prior attempt on July 7 was based on the assertion that Rafiq's oral testimony in court differed from his MACC written statement, which was prepared by an MACC official. However, Judicial Commissioner Datuk Azhar Abdul Hamid had ruled at that time that the defence could not impeach the former Bersatu assistant treasurer based on a single document, indicating a need for more substantial evidence of inconsistencies.
MACC Statements Are Protected Under Official Secrets Act

The MACC's interviews, during which statements are recorded, are protected under the Official Secrets Act. This legal protection adds a layer of complexity to the defence's request, as access to such statements is not automatic. The court will need to weigh the defence's need to establish potential inconsistencies against the confidentiality provisions governing MACC investigations before making a ruling on the disclosure of the statement's contents.

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Why does Syed Saddiq’s defence seek Rafiq’s full MACC statement?

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