PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has been told to “stop trying to be the attorney-general (AG)” and attempting to explaining the discharge not amounting to an acquittal (DNAA) granted to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
According to Pejuang information chief Rafique Rashid Ali, only the AG himself can decide whether to charge someone or withdraw the proceedings against them.
“Enough of the prime minister being the spokesman for the AG. The prime minister has been too busy making statements explaining why the case against Zahid was not continued,” he was reported as saying by FMT outside the Dang Wangi district police headquarters today (Sept 19).
“I advise you: enough of trying to be the AG. Be a prime minister.”
Rafique was among the 20 individuals summoned to provide their statements for their involvement in the “Selamatkan Malaysia” rally organised by Perikatan Nasional Youth last Saturday (Sept 16).
Emphasising that the rally was organized in accordance with the Peaceful Assembly Act (PAA) 2012, Rafique went on to castigate the police for saying that no application had been made or that they did not know that there was going to be a rally, adding that it was “clear to all the rakyat”.
“Section 9 of the Act outlines the application for any gathering. I fully believe it has been adhered to,” he was quoted as saying.
“The need to comply with the Act must be balanced with the need to ensure the people’s right to gather under Article 10 of the Federal Constitution.”
He further urged the people to not be afraid to speak out, adding that a “brave government will withstand criticism”.
“What is there to be afraid of from speaking out? Our laws protect everyone, whether ministers or members of the public – as long as we speak out within the boundaries of the law. No accusations, cursing or yelling. Do it well,” he pointed out.
“Criticism is part of democracy. Constructive criticism is not wrong.”
It was previously reported that the police had rejected the application submitted on the Sept 16 “Selamatkan Malaysia” rally as the information provided was incomplete and did not meet the requirements under the PAA.
Bukit Aman criminal investigation department (CID) chief Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain said among the details missing were the organisers’ name(s) as well as the proposed venue for the rally. – Sept 19, 2023
Main pic credit: Sinar Harian
