The anti-graft rally secretariat has vowed to press on with the demonstration scheduled on Jan 25 despite police warning.
“The demonstration will happen and we demand the authorities to respect the people’s rights, not betray them.
“The police are supposed to facilitate public rallies instead of preventing them.
“We will not bow to intimidation and the people’s wave will take on those who abuse their powers,” it said in a statement today.
Yesterday, Dang Wangi police chief Sulizmie Affendy Sulaiman warned the public against attending the anti-graft rally in Kuala Lumpur.
He acknowledged receipt of the rally’s organiser’s notice but said it was incomplete as it lacked the consent of the venue’s owners or occupants.
“Strict action will be taken in accordance with the provisions of existing laws,” Sulizmie said.
Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail also dismissed concerns from the rally's organisers regarding the police’s directive to get consent from the owners of the premises where they will gather.
The minister questioned whether any public place could be considered ownerless, telling the rally’s organisers that if they were familiar with requirements, there would not be any arguments for the existence of certain provisions.
However, the government’s stance against public rallies courted criticism from various quarters including Parti Sosialis Malaysia and Bersih.
‘Not our fault’
The secretariat pointed out that they had sent the necessary notification to the Dang Wangi district police headquarters on Jan 15, in compliance with Section 9(1) of the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012.
However, they were surprised when the police told them on Jan 17 to seek permission from the venue owner where they plan to gather – claiming it is a requirement under Section 11 of the same act.
“We sent a follow-up email on Jan 20 to discuss it but received no response.
“The Dang Wangi district police headquarters’ actions reflect their weaknesses and bureaucratic problems.
“And we must stress that the failure is theirs, not ours,” they added.
Hurling brickbats at the government, the secretariat reminded ministers and their officials that they should not misuse the laws for personal interests.
“Any manipulation of the law to prevent the public from gathering is a violation of our democratic rights, which is enshrined under the Federal Constitution.” - Mkini
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