Cops to facilitate anti-graft rally tomorrow: Saifuddin

Summary

• Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail confirms the police will facilitate the “Himpunan Rakyat Benci Rasuah” rally in Kuala Lumpur.

• He emphasises the government’s respect for freedom of assembly as enshrined in the Federal Constitution.

• Saifuddin reiterates the need for organisers and participants to comply with legal requirements while promising police support to ensure the event proceeds smoothly.

Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail announced the police will facilitate the “Himpunan Rakyat Benci Rasuah” rally tomorrow in Kuala Lumpur.

Speaking in Jeli, Terengganu today, Saifuddin said he had briefed the cabinet during a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim earlier in the day.

“I informed the cabinet that, as a government, we always respect the people’s right to freedom of assembly as guaranteed under the Federal Constitution.

“At the same time, I emphasised we also have the Peaceful Assembly Act (2012), which outlines the roles of rally participants, organisers, and the police.

“I have also spoken with the attorney-general (Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar). Tomorrow, the police will facilitate the rally because this government respects the principles of freedom of assembly and expression,” he said.

Saifuddin’s statement runs contrary to his earlier remarks, where he insisted the rally organiser seek permission from the premises owner before holding the rally.

Kuala Lumpur police chief Rusdi Mohd Isa earlier today said the rally organiser had yet to resubmit notice of the event to prove that they have the Kuala Lumpur City Hall’s permission.

He explained that while the organisers initially submitted the required notice, it was returned due to the absence of consent from the owners or occupants of the premises where the rally is planned to be held.

Not blocking rally

Meanwhile, Saifuddin dismissed allegations that the government was attempting to obstruct the rally.

“The government’s stance is entirely different from the accusations that restrictions are being imposed. What we are saying is that organisers must obtain the property owner’s consent.

“This is clearly stipulated in the Peaceful Assembly Act. If you wish to hold a rally, you must adhere to the regulations.

“Look back at the provisions of the law and it states what are the roles of participants and organisers, and what are the duties of the police,” he added.

The minister reiterated that while the police would facilitate the rally, organisers and participants must abide by the rules.

“We will facilitate the rally but it is the organisers’ and participants’ responsibility to comply with the regulations.

“For instance, participants must not carry sharp weapons, nor should they bring underage children,” he added.

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