Negeri Sembilan Gerakan chief, Gary Lee Ban Fat, has come forward to defend Ahmad Faizal Azumu, the Deputy President of Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu), who was recently accused of sexual harassment. Lee, who is also the Negeri Sembilan Perikatan Nasional (PN) deputy chairman, claims to have met with Faizal Azumu on the day the alleged incident took place. According to Sinar Harian, Lee explains that he arrived at Hotel Royal Chulan in Seremban and had discussions about the preparations for the Negeri Sembilan elections with Faizal Azumu and his officers. Lee firmly states that he was with Faizal Azumu during the same timeframe as mentioned by the woman who made the allegations.
The alleged incident took place on July 24 in Plaza Damas, Taman Sri Hartamas, where a woman accused Ahmad Faizal of making inappropriate remarks. However, she later withdrew her police complaint on the same day. Brickfields district police chief, Amihizam Abdul Shukor, has confirmed the opening of an inquiry paper regarding the matter. In response, Faizal Azumu lodged a police report to deny the accusations made against him, asserting that he was in Negeri Sembilan at the time of the incident, fulfilling his official duties as the Bersatu deputy president.
Faizal Azumu has urged the police to investigate the retraction of the woman’s police complaint, raising concerns about possible defamation. He further stated that he reserves the right to take legal action against the woman as well as the Telegram channel Edisi Siasat once the police complete their investigations. A second police report has been filed by Faizal Azumu regarding the retraction of the woman’s complaint, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation.
This case has sparked debates and conflicting opinions within the community. On one hand, the woman made serious allegations against Faizal Azumu, which demand a thorough investigation to protect the rights of potential victims. On the other hand, individuals like Gary Lee Ban Fat vouch for Faizal Azumu’s innocence based on their personal interactions during the alleged timeframe. It is important for the authorities to ensure a fair and unbiased investigation, considering all available evidence and statements from relevant parties.
As the investigation continues, both Ahmad Faizal Azumu and the woman involved wait for the truth to come to light. This incident underscores the need for accountability in addressing sexual harassment allegations and the importance of an objective inquiry to establish the facts.
