Penang-based social reform movement Aliran has called for the abolition of the Internal Security Act (ISA) Advisory Board, voicing concern that it has become nothing more than a "farcical facade of democracy which makes a mockery of justice".

In a statement yesterday, Aliran expressed shock that the government has not responded to the board's recommendation that the five reformasi activists detained under the security law be released immediately.

Aliran president P Ramakrishnan said failure to order their immediate release constitutes a "flagrant disregard and disrespect for the rule of law".

"If the government cannot honour the decision of the advisory board, if it continues to show scant respect to the rule of law, then what is the point of the board?" he asked.