'Is it right for the rally to be held on Merdeka Day?' - Najib

Merdeka Day should not be made the stage for political clashes although there are differences in opinions or beliefs, said Datuk Seri Najib Razak.

Referring to a rally that has been planned for the same time and place as the preparations for the Merdeka Day celebrations, the prime minister said the organisers of the rally should have chosen a time and place which would not lead to provocations.

"In a few more days, we will be observing the 58th Merdeka celebrations. It is a day when all the people will put aside their differences and celebrate together our love for the country.

"Is it right that this rally be held at a time and place that is so close to our independence day? Think about it," he said in a radio broadcast which was uploaded on to the website www.najibrazak.com today.

He added that the people should realise there were many parties who should be shown respect and appreciation during the Merdeka Day celebrations.

He said this included the nation's heroes who had fought for independence, schools, logistic personnel and entire contingents of the parade who had worked hard to prepare for the Merdeka Day celebrations.

The police have outlawed the Bersih 4.0 rally planned for this weekend as it did not meet the conditions set.

Kuala Lumpur City Hall has disallowed the rally to be held in the city, especially at Dataran Merdeka.