The Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (Bersih 2.0) is extremely concerned that the Perikatan Nasional (PN) government and the Malaysian police (PDRM) is resorting to their failed tactics of harassing and intimidating citizens who are expressing their extreme disappointment with the failure of the PN government over the handling of the pandemic and the economy. Such intimidations has served to strengthen the resolve of not only those targeted but also fair-minded Malaysians outraged by such bully tactics.
The PDRM has arrested 20 year-old Sarah Irdina, founder of Misi Solidariti yesterday under the Sedition Act for a tweet she posted on 1 July, calling people to support the #Lawan protest by displaying a black flag if they agree with their demands for the PM to resign, the reconvening of Parliament, and the ending of the Emergency. She was held at the Jinjang Detention Centre (KL) but has been released early this morning.
Earlier, three young activists were also called in for questioning at IPD Dang Wangi over the upcoming #Lawan protest on Saturday, 31 July at Dataran Merdeka. The trio are Tharma Pillai, Afiq Adib, and Muhammad Alshatri. They were not detained after their statements were taken.
Bersih 2.0 calls on all Malaysians to stand in solidarity with these young people who are exercising their constitutional rights to express and assemble peacefully. They are staking their claim in this country and their voices and aspirations should be heard.
For those who are in Kuala Lumpur and want to support the #Lawan peaceful protest, it will be on 31 July at 11:00 AM this coming Saturday at Dataran Merdeka. Please ensure that you are properly masked, observe social distancing and follow the instructions of the organiser.
If you are unable to participate in-person in KL, you may show your solidarity by wearing black or putting up a black flag on Saturday.
Meanwhile, we urge the PDRM to immediately release Sarah Irdina from detention and not treat our patriotic youths like criminals. The PDRM should carry out their duties in ensuring that the protest on Saturday is carried out smoothly and safely.
Statement issued by:
The Steering Committee of BERSIH 2.0