After ROS rejection, Muda claims PN blocking it from GE15

 

The Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (Muda) has accused the government of political interference following the Registrar of Societies’ (ROS) move to quash its bid to register as a political party.

In a statement today, Muda regretted how the registrar failed to state a reason for rejecting its application, which was sent four months ago.

“Muda is disappointed at ROS’ rejection. On Muda’s side, we gave our full cooperation to ROS and we have followed all registration criteria.

“Thus, there is no solid reason for ROS to reject Muda’s registration,” it said.

Malaysiakini has contacted the ROS for comment.

In the statement, it said ROS’ decision had prejudiced its right to association, a right enshrined under Article 10 (1)(c) of the Federal Constitution.

It further characterised the rejection as a bid by Perikatan Nasional (PN) to bar Muda from participating in the 15th general election.

“This is a wicked attempt by the PN government to stop Muda and its supporters from taking part in the upcoming general election.

“The move also violates Muda’s constitutional right to form associations. We demand that the government contests in the upcoming election in a fair, transparent, and clean manner; and not employ any cunning or dirty tactics,” it said.

ROS is a department under the Home Ministry, headed by minister Hamzah Zainudin.

Muda noted that news of its registration rejection was communicated to it a day after the alliance raised questions about the business dealings by Prasarana chairperson Tajuddin Abdul Rahman.

“Moving forward, Muda will consider all available options including court action,” it said about the ROS decision.

Muda is spearheaded by Muar MP Syed Saddiq Abdul Rahman, formerly the Bersatu Youth chief until he was booted out from the party.

Muda aims to be a youth-centric, multiracial political platform.

Aside from Muda, the ROS has also rejected Parti Pejuang Tanah Air’s (Pejuang) application to be registered as a political party.

Pejuang is led by former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad. - Mkini