Death Threat and Democracy

Aliran views with deep concern deputy minister Ibrahim Ali's recent allegation that certain senior UMNO members, including Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, have been put on a so-called "death list" making its rounds in the country.

This is the second such death threat we are hearing about. What was the outcome of the investigations into the first threat?

We call on the authorities to determine the veracity of the latest threat, which has been linked to foreign powers. It is important that allegations are backed up with facts and evidence. If need be, the government should set up a commission of inquiry.

An independent probe would dispel suspicion among Malaysians that the "death list" was publicised to cast aspersions upon the Opposition and to alienate it from the public in the run-up to the general election. The inquiry should focus on the source of the 10,000 tapes and leaflets said to be in circulation. It is unlikely that cash-strapped opposition parties would have the resources to finance such an operation.

Right thinking and peace-loving Malaysians must categorically denounce any attempt to violently displace political leaders, be they from the ruling coalition or the opposition parties. That said, the country's stability and security would be best secured if we have an accountable and transparent government administration under which the people would have ample space to express their opinions democratically through forums and debates, and over the mass media.

Aliran Executive Committee
17 July 1999