Hindraf backs Zaid in face-off with Jamal

PETALING JAYA: Hindraf, the Hindu rights action front, said today it stands behind former minister Zaid Ibrahim who has been publicly threatened by Umno Sungai Besar division chief Jamal Yunos.

“Fundamental human rights demand he should be afforded protection, equally and justly, irrespective of what he is alleged to have tweeted,” said Hindraf chairman P Waythamoorthy in a statement.

“Since police reports have been lodged against him, let the police do their part independently without interference and pressure from any party.”

Jamal, armed with a sledgehammer, yesterday threatened to “hammer” Zaid’s head if no action was taken against him for his criticism of the Selangor sultan, just days after burning effigies of the latter.

Waytha said Zaid has always been a vocal critic against any form of injustice, including racial or religious extremism and the role of the state.

“Every Malaysian must appreciate we lack individuals like Dato Zaid who stand up for the larger interests and rights of the people and country. Hence, it is our duty to show solidarity with him.”

Zaid sparked controversy when he took to Twitter to “advise” the Selangor sultan who earlier criticised Pakatan Harapan chairman Dr Mahathir Mohamad as being motivated by “deep hatred” and that “his anger will burn the whole country”.

His tweet read: “The Selangor sultan should be careful with his words. No one is immune when the country burns.”

Subsequently, the sultan told Zaid to return to his home state of Kelantan if he was unhappy with the ruler.

Waytha said Hindraf was shocked that no action was taken by the police whose silence could be interpreted as tacit approval of Jamal’s threat of violence.

He said it was becoming more obvious by the day that the unruly Umno leaders seemed to be above the law.

“One wonders where this country is heading to with such an attitude by the police,” he said. - FMT