SHAH ALAM, 25 Apr: The Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (Bersih 2.0) is disappointed by the statement issued by the Dang Wangi District Police Chief, Commissioner Zainuddin Ahmad, who labelled the May 1 Assembly in Kuala Lumpur as ‘illegal’ and urged the public to stay away.
Quoting a joint statement issued by the Bersih 2.0 Steering Committee, this is because Labour Day on May 1 is traditionally celebrated with gathering across the world and this right is also provided for in the Federal Constitution.
“The police cannot use the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012 to stop this rally.
“The stance of the District Chief of Police also shows the weaknesses of this country, with the democratic credentials deteriorating,” according to the press statement issued today.
Bersih 2.0 also urged the police to give their commitment in launching the assembly which will be attended by the citizens of this country, like the commitment given to launch the visit of the President of the United States, Barack Obama.
