Activist Sorry For Fb Post Challenging Pathologist In Zara Inquest

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A local activist has issued a public apology over her social media post, which allegedly constituted contempt of court involving the ongoing inquest into the death of Zara Qairina Mahathir.
In a Facebook post last night, Che Muna Din, who uses the name ‘Mona Din’ on the platform, also expressed her gratitude to the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) for allowing her the opportunity to apologise and settle the matter.
The AGC had earlier this month issued a show-cause notice against the woman over her remarks shared in a Sept 4 Facebook post, which allegedly challenged the testimony of forensic pathologist Dr Jessie Hiu and risked influencing public perception of the inquest.
In her apology, the activist insisted she had never intended to question or interfere in the ongoing proceedings before the Coroner’s Court.
ADS“I also had no malicious intent to influence public opinion or perception, let alone that of the coroner presiding over the inquest proceedings.
“I pledge not to make any further postings that could be deemed as interfering with the justice system or contempt of court,” she added.
She also said she had deleted the disputed posting on Sept 13.
Inquest progresses
The inquest is examining the circumstances surrounding Zara’s fall from the third floor of her school dormitory in July.
Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Agama Tun Datu MustaphaHiu became a target of vitriol after testifying that forensics indicated Zara jumped from the school, instead of being pushed or accidentally falling.
However, when asked whether Zara may have died by suicide, she said the matter is for the Coroner’s Court to decide.
Following brickbats from the public, with some netizens questioning her credibility and hurling insults at her, Hiu lodged a police report against the threats she received online.
Zara, a 13-year-old boarding school student from Papar, was found injured and unconscious on school grounds on July 16. Despite being brought to the hospital, she succumbed to her injuries the next day.
The case is believed to have been linked to months of bullying, with five teenagers being charged for allegedly bullying her.
The ongoing inquest is a separate court proceeding to ascertain the circumstances surrounding her death. - Mkini

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