The Malacca state assemblypersons who were pelted with eggs and stones at Merlimau last Saturday have denied claims either of their cars having hit a protester, which caused the attacks.

NONE In a joint statement, Bandar Hilir assemblyperson Tey Kok Kiew and Ayer Keroh assemblyperson Khoo Poay Tiong ( left ) said "not one of the four cars attacked" that day hit anybody, as claimed by an Umno leader.

"We were attacked when leaving the event (meant to feature Bersih co-chairperson Ambiga Sreenevasan) and some of us were attacked in front of the police, when the police were giving us traffic instructions.

"Even if it is true that an accident happened, the matter should be left to the authorities to handle as Umno's and Perkasa's thugs are not enforcement agents," the DAP representatives said.

Yesterday, Umno Jasin secretary Jazlee Tit admitted to organising the protest, but did not endorse the stoning, which he said only happened after the car "knocked into one of (his) boys".

The protest resulted in broken windshields, smashed side mirrors and dented car doors.

Ambiga, who was earlier scheduled to speak at the event had cancelled her appearance at the last minute after police advised the organisers against holding it.

Umno state reps also present?

Meanwhile, Tey and Khoo also called on other local Umno leaders to admit that they, too, were there during the "incidents of violence".

NONE They claimed that at least four Malacca elected representatives from Umno were present.

"They have to come forward and take responsibility for organising all this. If not then how could the protestors be so emboldened to act violently in the presence of the police.

" Jangan bertindak baling batu sembunyi tangan ... This is cowardice and irresponsible," their statement said, citing to a Malay proverb describing people who do not want to own up to the trouble that they instigate.

Malaysiakini has contacted the Umno leaders named by Tey and Khoo and is withholding the identity of these individuals pending their response.