The mathematics of the law

There is an interesting problem appearing in the recent news. The gist of the matter is that an MP has been sentenced to a fine of RM2,000. The Constitution provides that “a person fined not less than RM2,000 shall be disqualified” as an MP.

The lawyers are befuddled. Is RM 2,000 “not less than RM2,000” ?

For the laymen (and lawyers are laymen for this purpose), the argument goes like this:
1. The man has been fined RM 2,000.
2. If RM 2,000 is considered “less than RM 2,000” then he is not disqualified
3. If RM 2,000 is considered “not less than RM 2,000” then he is disqualified

It’s quite obvious, but we cannot blame the lawyers.

In mathematical parlance, the problem can be analysed thus:

Is 2000 < 2000 : not true

Is 2000 > 2000 : not true

Is 2000 not< 2000 : true


Of course for the mathematical aficionados there are methods of proving that RM 2,000is not less than RM 2,000. One way is to use Fourier series & Euler's constant.

The bottom line is that there is no point in disqualifying Tian Chua. Batu is confirmed PKR.