Media Statement
Kit Siang's Arrest: Governing Through Intimidation?
We are amazed that Malaysians can't walk peacefully (as evident on May Day) or distribute informative leaflets freely (as evidenced in the case of Kit Siang).
If fundamental rights are denied to Malaysians, what freedom is there left to celebrate democracy in Malaysia?
Aliran is disturbed that the institution of the police has been turned into a political tool of oppression. Sometimes it seems that in their enthusiasm to play this role, the police act even when there is no justifiable grounds as revealed in Kit Siang's case.
We understand that at first Kit Siang was arrested for distributing leaflets without a permit. Later, we are made to understand that the arrest was for distributing leaflets which allegedly contained seditious elements that criticised Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad's declaration that Malaysia is already an Islamic state.
Aliran condemns such totally unjustified high-handed action, which unnecessarily harasses well-meaning Malaysians who mean well for the country.
It shows that the Malaysian government can only maintain its grip on power through intimidation of the people. It is through intimidation that the culture of fear is being vigorously inculcated. Without resorting to fear, it would appear that the Barisan government is not capable of responding to challenges involving justice, freedom and solidarity.
P Ramakrishnan
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Aliran is flabbergasted that opposition politician Lim Kit Siang has been arrested for distributing leaflets, an activity that is not life-threatening to the nation nor posing any serious security problems.