#sosma

Malaysia cannot call itself a proper democracy while undemocratic and draconian laws remain, says the watchdog body.

The committee, however, could not reveal more about yesterday’s proceedings.

Haniff Khatri says Mahathir has been consistent in wanting to abolish certain provisions in the security law.

Reiterating his stand on the LTTE dragnet, PM says the police do not make arrests for no reason.

"There is no need to abolish Sosma. In my opinion, it needs to be improved from time to time to avoid abuse."

COMMENT | The biggest problem with Sosma is the many provisions, inconsistent with the established rules of evidence, which favour the prosecution in a trial.

'In the absence of other laws that could be applied, they used the Sosma Act.'

Do not unnecessarily detain the suspects for 28 days as provided under Sosma, says Abdul Fareed.

UPDATED 4.27PM | He disagrees with the need for the parliamentary select committee to scrutinise the arrests under Sosma.

PKR chief says the law needs to be amended, especially on the powers vested in the police.

The arrest brings the number of people detained for alleged links to LTTE to 12.

Satees says Mohd Asri is a staunch supporter of Zakir Naik who is wanted for terrorism links, so who is he to interfere?

Police must answer to the committee on use of Sosma, committee member Lim Lip Eng says.

Bangladesh and Sri Lanka have banned the preacher's Peace TV channel for allegedly influencing terrorist attacks.

The two DAP assemblypersons had been detained under Sosma for alleged links to the LTTE.

IGP says such activities could affect the country's security.

He is now detained again, under the Prevention of Crime Act 1959, says his lawyer.

Those responsible for sabotaging an essential utility can be detained under Sosma, says IGP.

LETTER | Hamid said that removing the law would be akin to taking away 'guns' to fight terrorists.

UPDATED 4.10PM | Chairperson Anwar Ibrahim says this does not mean the caucus is weak on terrorism.

INTERVIEW | From one that is harsh and full of abuses, to one that is concerned and humane.

It says Poca, Pota, PPPA and Sedition Act also being reviewed.

Muhyiddin Yassin confirms this without revealing if the acts would be repealed.