Solidariti Anak Muda Malaysia (SAMM) has demanded that Kedah Menteri Besar Azizan Abdul Razak reverse the suspension of five students at the state-owned institution of higher learning or risk being booted out in the next general election.

penang kedah timber logging azizan abdul razak 310708 03 "The students are those without political motives (who) championing for truth and freedom... if Azizan (left) stays egoistic in not solving the problem prudently, don’t be surprised if the students with all their power will bring down this leader in the 13th general election," said the group.

Azizan has backed state-owned Kolej Universiti Insaniah (Kuin) in Alor Setar in suspending five of its students under the much-contested University and University Colleges Act (UUCA) in May last year.

The PAS menteri besar’s support is also contradictory to Pakatan Rakyat’s promises under their Buku Jingga (Orange Book), where the opposition’s pact has vowed to repeal the contentious legislation.

“Azizan should be prepared to face the results of his every action in ignoring the voice of the students,” said the student coalition in a statement yesterday.

In condemning the state leadership’s support for the institution’s decision in using the “draconian” law to restrict students’ freedom of expression, the groups said:

“As the menteri besar, he should know his actions will defeat the purpose of the Orange Book and will be seen as rhetorics to students.

NONE “Despite the resistance from Pakatan leadership and student movements, Azizan is still on the offensive.”

In another statement, Aksi Kami Progresif (AKP), made up of three student groups including Legasi Mahasiswa Progresif, its coordinator Adam Adli Abdul Halim also rebuked Azizan for “disrespecting” the rights of the students.

“Azizan must insaf and realise that the suspended students are brave enough to state the truth, unlike others who apple polish and are willing to pawn their principles,” he added.

The movement urged the menteri besar to lift the suspension and fulfil Pakatan’s promise to safeguard students’ rights to freedom of expression.