Death penalty in the Zulfarhan case: ‘The decision of the Court of Appeal is a dark moment for the country’s judiciary’ – Suhakam

KUALA LUMPUR: The Court of Appeal’s decision to sentence six offenders to death by hanging in connection with the murder of the late Zulfarhan Osman Zulkarnain marks a gloomy and sad moment for the country’s judiciary.

The Human Rights Commission (Suhakam) in a statement on Thursday said it believes that the death penalty is not a fair or effective solution.

He said again, the death penalty is a form of punishment that cannot be restored, and does not allow any possibility for rehabilitation in the event of a wrong judgement.

“It also goes against the global movement towards the abolition of capital punishment, which many countries currently see as inhumane, and in conflict with human rights,” according to the statement.

Suhakam said, although he shares the grief of the victim’s family, and acknowledges the severity of the crime that has been committed, he is firmly against the form of punishment.

He said, in that context, it is very important to emphasize the need for rehabilitation, which is capable of turning criminals into more responsible and constructive members of society.

The approach, he explained, will not only deal with the root cause of the problem of violent attitudes, but can prevent the recurrence of tragedies like the case, by promoting understanding, empathy, and social responsibility among offenders.

“We will remain committed to the human rights mandate, and will continue to promote the abolition of the death penalty.

“Suhakam called on the Malaysian Government to review the use of the death penalty, and continue to strive to create a fair and humane justice system for all,” he added.