Suhakam commissioner James Nayagam (right) said it is a necessary part of the public inquiry they plan to probe claims of police brutality during the rally.“We have to... People don't realise that when you say public inquiry, you have to talk to everyone involved. It has to be a thorough investigation,” he said after receiving written testimonies and video evidence of the alleged police brutality.
Representatives from Bersih 2.0, Suaram, Tenaganita and Lawyers for Liberty presented 17 videos, 15 general testimonies and 17 testimonies specifically on the alleged tear gassing of the Tung Shin Hospital.
Suhakam had initially called for those with complaints of police brutality to come forward and submit their evidence to the commission by Aug 2, but extended their deadline to today following requests from Bersih 2.0 and others. 
When asked to elaborate on whether the inquiry will include senior police officers including inspector-general of police Ismail Omar, James said it will depend on the inquiry team.
He said they intend to hold the inquiry as soon as possible, but noted that the inquiry panel will need time to compile and go through the relevant data before they can proceed.
“Most probably it will be after Ramadan. If you want to do a good job, you cannot rush through. There is a lot of work to do, and at this point of time, we can't give an exact date for the inquiry,” he said.
James gave an assurance that the inquiry team is independent and will “investigate all aspects” of the claims against the police.
The three-member panel is led by Suhakam vice-chairperson Khaw Lake Tee, assisted by fellow commissioners Mahmood Zuhdi Abdul Majid and Detta Samen.
“The inquiry team is very well-versed in what to do, and I'm sure whatever material (obtained from witnesses) will help ensure the inquiry progresses well,” he said.
'Police must be taken to task'
Bersih 2.0 committee member Maria Chin Abdullah, who was among those presenting evidence to the commission, stressed that the bottom line is the police must be compelled to take responsibility for what happened during the rally.
She acknowledged that the inquiry is a positive step forward, but pointed out that it must not excuse the police for the alleged brutality committed that day.
“From the public inquiry, recommendations must be made and the police need to take (the recommendations) seriously.
“The police need to be taken to task for the brutality they have done, not only on July 9 but also before and after the rally,” she said, referring to the continued alleged harassment of witnesses by police and the crackdown prior to the rally. - Malaysiakini
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