Will the Chief Minister face contempt charges for alleged interference?

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Chief Minister Faces Contempt Application Over Alleged Interference with Court Proceedings

Businessman Albert Tei Jiann Chieng has initiated proceedings to cite caretaker Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor for contempt of court. Tei alleges that state immigration powers were used to obstruct his entry into Sabah, thereby preventing his attendance at his ongoing corruption trial. This action stems from Tei's claim that Sabah Immigration officers, acting on alleged directives from the Chief Minister's Office, denied him entry on two separate occasions.
Allegations of Immigration Powers Misuse

Tei asserts that Sabah Immigration officers barred his entry into the state on September 22 and again on October 23. He contends in his affidavit that these actions were carried out under orders originating from the Chief Minister's Office. Tei argues that this alleged directive constitutes a violation of his fundamental constitutional rights, specifically those protected under Articles 5 and 8 of the Federal Constitution, which pertain to personal liberty and equality before the law.
Seeking Committal Proceedings

Through his legal representatives, Tei has filed an ex parte application seeking leave to commence committal proceedings against Hajiji. This application, made under Order 52, Rule 3 of the Rules of Court 2012, aims to hold the Chief Minister accountable for alleged interference with the administration of justice. Tei is seeking penalties for Hajiji, including a potential jail sentence or fine, should he be found guilty of contempt, in addition to an unqualified apology to the court.
Upcoming Hearing and Related Trial

The contempt application is scheduled to be heard by Sessions Court judge Jason Juga on November 24. Tei is currently facing two charges related to offering bribes totalling RM350,000 to two Sabah assemblymen, who are themselves charged with receiving the funds. The broader case has consequently brought into focus discussions surrounding Sabah's established immigration autonomy, a right preserved under the Malaysia Agreement 1963.

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Will the Chief Minister face contempt charges for alleged interference?

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