Kuala Lumpur: The Sessions Court today ordered Kijal Assemblyman Datuk Razali Idris to enter his defence on a charge of making a speech of seditious nature, alleging government influence over the judiciary, at the launch of the Kemaman by-election machinery two years ago. Judge Norma Ismail made the order after finding that the prosecution had succeeded in establishing a prima facie case against Razali, 58, who is also the former Bersatu Information Chief, at the end of the prosecution's case.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the judge stated that after examining the evidence and submissions of both parties, the court found that the prosecution had succeeded in establishing a prima facie case. Consequently, Razali is required to defend himself on this charge. The trial has been scheduled for four days on September 26 and 30, and October 2 and 3.

The proceedings were attended by deputy public prosecutors Datuk Badiuszaman Ahmad and Muhammad Amir Hannif Ahijman, along with lawyer Awang Armadajaya Awang Mahmud, who is representing Razali. Razali also holds the position of Terengganu Tourism, Culture, Environment, and Climate Change Committee chairman.

Razali pleaded not guilty on November 24, 2023, to making a speech of a seditious nature between 9:30 pm and 11:30 pm on November 10 of the same year at the launch of the Kemaman by-election machinery at Padang Astaka Chukai, Kemaman in Terengganu. He was charged under Section 4 (1) (b) of the Sedition Act 1948, which provides a fine of up to RM5,000 or imprisonment of up to three years or both, if convicted.