Allow Judgment Day Gathering

Aliran welcomes the statement by the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) urging the authorities to allow those who wish to go to the High Court on 4 August to find out the verdict to do so. We are also happy with Suhakam's decision to send observers to the scene on that day.

Suhakam's reminder to the police that crowd-control should be people-friendly and non-confrontational is timely. We still recall the harsh tactics used in April last year when Anwar Ibrahim was first convicted and again during the recent Black 14 gathering to mark the first anniversary of the conviction.

Aliran upholds the right to assemble peacefully as a basic human right. Suhakam's reminder that there could be provocations from certain quarters out to incite violence and even rioting is worth noting. In this regard, Aliran would like to recommend that those gathering outside court should immediately sit down on the road or pavement at the first sign of violence. This will allow police personnel to identify and remove from the scene those responsible for the violence. Everyone will be able to see who is responsible for any violence. The others gathered there peacefully should be allowed to remain.

Aliran reminds the authorities that the whole world will be watching Malaysia on 4 August and hopes that all quarters will respect the rule of law as well as the inalienable right to gather peacefully. We also call on the police to act with utmost restraint and professionalism in discharging their duties impartially.