Bersih 4: City Hall to send bill for staffing, damage by month-end

The Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) will send a bill for staffing and damage costs amounting to RM61,840 to the organisers of the Bersih 4 rally before month-end, says Federal Territories Deputy Minister, Datuk Dr Loga Bala Mohan.

He said the amount included the cost of monitoring and dismantling banners and buntings, and erasing graffiti related to Bersih 4, putting up water barriers and fences, as well as damage to the road landscape and city benches.

"From Aug 13 to 31, about 231 banners and such were brought down and 677 officers and enforcement officers had to work 24 hours in three shifts on control and monitoring duties.

"For any event that is held in the city, DBKL will issue a permit and the cost of damage, as well as cleaning up is the responsibility of the organiser," he said in a press conference held after a ceremony to celebrate the 46th DBKL Enforcer's Day here today.

He said the claims were made through the DBKL Legal and Prosecution Department, following proper court procedures, adding that the amount did not include the cost of cleaning works done by Alam Flora.

"During the Bersih 3 rally, DBKL made a tally but did not make any claims as there was no evidence...this time, preparations were made and we have the evidence such as photographs which can be taken to court," he said.

In a separate development, he said the Red Shirt Rally was slightly different as the organisers fulfilled the conditions under the Peaceful Assemblies Act.

"They accepted the venue we suggested...but the organisers will also be imposed a charge and held responsible if any damage is caused to property," he said.