Security withdrawal for Dr M is more than just unfair

Many have been left shocked by the news of the police cancelling Special Action Unit (UTK) protection for Malaysia's longest serving former prime minister, Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

Some are saying that it is not fair to do so, especially when the prime minister who served the shortest term, Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, still gets to enjoy the many perks that come with retirement (or perhaps resignation).

The reason given by police for denying the former statesperson of 22 years of critical security has further drawn screams of “injustice” from various quarters.

This latest development raises serious fundamental ethical concerns that are painting the Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak, his political party, and the police force into a corner.

Former inspector-general of police Khalid Abu Bakar justified the removal of security services, saying that it would make no sense to send outriders to escort Mahathir in “illegal” gatherings.

This affirms that the police are not doing their jobs, but getting embroiled in political patronage. Such a stand is unethical.

The claim that Dr M is involved in “illegal” activities makes a mockery of the effectiveness of the law.

The question that then arises is: what is so wrong and unlawful about opposition political parties?

Are we to believe that anything other than Barisan Nasional is unlawful, against its rulers and citizens?

Then Malaysia is no more a democratic, constitutional monarchy.

With this unethical decision taken by the police with no effort from the government and public institutions to intervene, the public are now challenging it by saying they will act as Mahathir’s bodyguards.

Hence, if any untoward incident happens in the wake of denying Mahathir security, it will do irreparable harm to the reputation and ethical standards of the BN led government and the police force.- Mkini