GEORGE TOWN, April 20 — The streets of Penang’s historical city centre roared with the voices of thousands calling out the name of their state’s beloved son — Karpal Singh.
Elbows jostled with shoulders as admirers of the late lawyer and lawmaker surged through a sea of bodies for a final glimpse of their hero as his casket was loaded onto a hearse for the state funeral procession around the streets of George Town, where Karpal had studied, set up his legal practice, fought epic courtroom battles and debated the law.
Emotions ran high as the huge crowd, which had gathered in front of Dewan Sri Pinang as early as 7am, shouted in unison “Karpal Singh! Karpal Singh! Karpal Singh!”
Banners and posters bearing the deceased Bukit Gelugor MP’s familiar face were placed all over the entrance of the building; tents were erected to allow visitors a place to rest and to shelter from the sweltering heat.
Inside the town hall, family members recited last prayer rites for Karpal. Outside the chanting tumult swelled to a roar.
Earlier, three separate official tributes were given to the former DAP national chairman — one by the Penang state government, one by his party and one more by Pakatan Rakyat leaders led by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
DAP leaders, young and old wore their trademark white shirt and black pants, and watched silently as Karpal’s casket was shut for the last time.
The funeral cortège has left the building and will pass and stop briefly at the Penang High Court, his legal firm in Green Hall, the Penang state legislative assembly and alma mater St Xavier’s Institution.
It will then proceed to the Bukit Gantung crematorium for the final rites.
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