Class Action Lawsuit Against Covid-19 Vaccination Programmes Withdrawn
A group of Malaysians who filed a RM60 million class action lawsuit against Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, the World Health Organization (WHO), and 23 others over alleged health complications and deaths linked to Covid-19 vaccinations have withdrawn their case.
Background of the Case
The plaintiffs, represented by lawyer Zainuddin Abu Bakar, had asked the court to cancel all programmes such as the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme, alleging that they were adversely affected by the government’s "negligent and erroneous public health policy" mandating vaccination at the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic four years ago.
Withdrawal of the Case
In a High Court ruling, Justice Raja Ahmad Mohzanuddin Shah Raja Mohzan ordered the plaintiffs to pay the defendants a total of RM8,000 in costs. However, he granted them liberty to refile the suit.
Zainuddin told the court that they had decided to withdraw the case to reassess their legal strategy before refiling. He said, "We found that it’s best for us to withdraw the suit, file afresh, and reevaluate the list of defendants so that the case can proceed smoothly."
Court’s Observations
In his ruling, Raja Ahmad observed that the plaintiffs had failed to present sufficient scientific evidence to support their claims. He urged the parties involved to thoroughly evaluate their facts and evidence before initiating any legal action, especially in cases of such magnitude.
Original Plaintiffs’ Demands
The original statement of claim included the following demands:
- A court declaration that the Covid-19 virus was "fake" and man-made
- The use of medicine such as ivermectin and colchicine without prior vaccine should be allowed
- The cancellation of all programmes such as the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme
- Compensation for alleged health complications and deaths linked to Covid-19 vaccinations
Current Status of the Case
Zainuddin confirmed that there is no set date for refiling the lawsuit, as they are awaiting further instructions from their clients. He also confirmed that four of the eight original plaintiffs had previously withdrawn from the lawsuit.
Conclusion
The withdrawal of the class action lawsuit is a significant development in the ongoing debate surrounding Covid-19 vaccinations and the government’s public health policies. The court’s decision highlights the importance of scientific evidence in legal proceedings, particularly in cases of high magnitude.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did the plaintiffs withdraw the case?
A: The plaintiffs withdrew the case to reassess their legal strategy and refile the suit with more robust evidence.
Q: What are the next steps for the plaintiffs?
A: The plaintiffs are awaiting further instructions from their clients before refiling the lawsuit.
Q: What is the current status of the case?
A: The case has been withdrawn, and the plaintiffs are free to refile the suit at a later date.