10/12: Ali Rustam: invoke ISA or withdraw citizenship of lawyers

(Bernama) -- Umno vice-president Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam has urged the authorities to invoke the Internal Security Act (ISA) or withdraw the citizenship of the four lawyers and four activists involved in an illegal march in Kuala Lumpur today.

He said their action showed that they were traitors to the country for going against the order of the authorities not to proceed with the illegal march.

"I support their arrest as their action was extreme. Their stubbornness to go ahead with the illegal march could cause fear among the people, and perhaps even among the investors," he told reporters after attending the wedding of the daughter of 4B Youth Movement Malaysia general secretary, Datuk Wira Jamaludin Abdul Rahim here today.

Mohd Ali was asked to comment on the arrest of four lawyers and four activists for holding an illegal march from in front of the Sogo Departmental Store in Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman to the Bar Council building in Jalan Raja, Kuala Lumpur this morning.

The organisers of the march did not obtain a police permit to hold it and had also ignored the order to disperse.

About 50 people, including lawyers, activists, bloggers and members of non-governmental organisations, had gathered since 7.30am in front of Sogo and marched along Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman towards the Bar Council building in conjunction with World Human Rights Day tomorrow.

Mohd Ali, who is also Melaka Chief Minister, said the action by the authorities was necessary to prevent more street demonstrations from being organised by irresponsible groups.

"Such illegal demonstrations or gatherings could threaten public order.

"I also think that these gatherings are linked to the opposition parties which are becoming increasingly desperate on hearing talks that the general election would be held soon.

"They are willing to do anything to win votes," he said.