Taxi drivers in the city are protesting the planned illegal gathering by the Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (Bersih) and describe the group as troublemakers who make the life of people difficult.

A Bernama survey found that taxi drivers want Bersih to scrap its plan to hold the illegal assembly as they feel it is not beneficial and a waste of time.

Taxi driver Samad Ismail, 43, said the illegal gathering would not benefit anyone and in fact would disrupt their earning a living as taxi drivers, and inconvenience others, too.

"I want to know what is the benefit and purpose of the rally as I know it will only be orderly for a few minutes and after that it's pandemonium," he told Bernama here today.

"On normal weekends, our income can be as much as RM250 but with the illegal demonstration, our income will be affected by the traffic congestion arising from the rally.

"To me, such a gathering will spoil the image of the country in the eyes of tourists. Our country is peaceful as people can move around without feeling fearful. So, why must we complicate the situation?

"The issues can be discussed and there is no need to trouble the public," he said.

The Association of Taxi/Limousine Drivers and Operators and Car Rental Operators of Malaysia (Petekma) is also against the proposed illegal assembly and called on Bersih chairperson S Ambiga to cancel it.

'We do not want trouble'

Petekma deputy president Syahrir Abdul Aziz said he had already made a police report, asking police to act against individuals behind the illegal assembly and those taking part in it.

Several traders around Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman also expressed their worries over the illegal assembly.

One handbag and women accessories retailer, Rosyna Alias, 48, said the planned illegal assembly should be cancel as it would not only affect the traders' income but also threaten public safety.

"This area is always crowded, more so on weekends when people of various races are out shopping, so we do not want trouble.

"I do not agree with the illegal assembly as should it turn into a riot, who will be responsible for the safety of the people?" she said.

A similar opinion was expressed by shop assistant, Yusniza Ariffin, 38, who said: "Besides affecting our business, we do not want the gathering to endanger our customers as the area will be packed with people."

However, a wedding card shopkeeper, Nurul Haslina Zulkifli, 23 said if the assembly does not affect the safety of the people and business activities, it should be not a problem.

- Bernama

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