PAS, Bersatu's youth wings to join Jan 25 anti-corruption rally

Summary

• PAS and Bersatu’s youth wings have confirmed their participation in the “Himpunan Rakyat Benci Rasuah” rally, advocating for democratic rights and fighting corruption.

• Despite police warnings about incomplete notice submissions and venue consent issues, the organisers and participants are proceeding with the rally.

• PAS Youth urges the government to respect citizens’ right to peaceful assembly, stressing the rally as a means to voice concerns about corruption.

PAS and Bersatu’s youth wings have confirmed their participation in the “Himpunan Rakyat Benci Rasuah” scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur this Saturday, Jan 25. 

PAS Youth information chief Nadzir Helmi described the rally as a reflection of the people’s democratic rights, guaranteed by the Federal Constitution under the freedoms of speech and peaceful assembly.

“As a democratic nation, the freedom to assemble peacefully is a cornerstone of democracy and a critical component in holding the ruling government accountable.

“Therefore, it is the responsibility of both the people and the opposition to ensure the continued fight for reform and transparency,” said Nadzir in a media statement.

Protest proceeding despite warnings

The rally’s organisers have vowed to proceed with the event despite warnings from the police.

Dang Wangi District police chief Sulizmie Affendy Sulaiman had earlier cautioned the public against attending, citing incomplete notice submissions and the lack of consent from the venue owner.

Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and government spokesperson Fahmi Fadzil also defended the authorities, reiterating the need to comply with legal requirements for public gatherings.

However, PKR and DAP’s youth wings have urged the government to respect the right to protest.

‘Respect the right to peaceful assembly’

Nadzir stated that the upcoming rally, supported by both opposition parties and citizens, demonstrates a constructive and responsive approach to building a better Malaysia.

“This aligns with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s stance that the government is always open to criticism and suggestions for the betterment of the nation,” he said.  

Nadzir emphasised that the rally is not merely an exercise of democratic rights but also a mechanism to voice public concerns about corruption in the country.  

“PAS Youth calls on the government to act maturely and respect the people’s right to assemble without unreasonable interference or restrictions,” he added.

Meanwhile, Bersatu Youth chief Hilman Idham confirmed that his party’s youth wing will also join the rally.  

“Yes, Bersatu Youth will attend,” said Hilman, who is also the Gombak Setia assemblyperson, in a statement to Malaysiakini. 

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