Cops proposes alternative rally venues

The police has warned against participating in a rally organised by several NGOs on May 1 due to issues with the proposed venue.

 

In a press release today, the Dangi Wangi OCPD Zainuddin Ahmad said Dataran Merdeka, which the organisers of the rally intends to use, is off limits due to ongoing construction works and organisers have not specified an alternative venue.

 

"There are machines and construction materials such as steel and wood which is within the Dataran Merdeka vicinity," he said.

 

"If the rally is held here, it might delay upgrading works and also cause more damage. In view of this, the police suggests that the organisers hold the rally at Padang Merbok or Stadium Merdeka."

He added if the rally goes on at Dataran Merdeka, it may endanger the public and also cause traffic congestion as organisers planned to march from a few points.

 

Padang Merbok is a field owned by Kuala Lumpur City Hall and is located in Jalan Parlimen - a stone's throw away from from Dataran Merdeka.

Decision soon

Meanwhile, when contacted, the May 1 protest committee spokesperson S Arutchelvan said organisers will meet tomorrow to discuss on a possible alternative venue.

 

Arutchelvan had met Zainuddin this afternoon for some 20 minutes.

 

"Basically they showed us pictures of the field at Dataran Merdeka where construction was taking place and we agreed not to go into the field.

 

"We suggested using the road in front of Dataran Merdeka or perhaps other public spaces and they (police) told us to get back to them," he said.

 

Arutchelvan, who is also Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) secretary-general, said the meeting with the police which started at 4.10pm went well.

 

"The police said they wanted to assist us such as stationing medical personnels and ambulance so they needed to know out exact locations," he said.

 

Arutchelvan said the committee is expected to come up with a decision by noon.