Over the past two weeks, we have seen the government cracking down on dissent in an intensity never seen before under the Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Razak administration.
Not only were opposition leaders had the book thrown at them, even an academician and a journalist were not spared the perceived persecution on the part of the government.
This has created a lot of anxiety within the society at large, including civil society groups like CENBET.
This is largely stemmed from the perception that State apparatus, such as the police and the Attorney-General’s Chambers, are being used to clamp down on dissent.
To allay such fears and disquiet, the Prime Minister as a statesman should clarify why a swoop appears to be taking place, especially against those whose views are different from that of the government’s.
Datuk Seri Mohd Najib also need to state whether such a “crackdown” will intensify or will be rolled back.
He needs to reiterate his commitment that state apparatus would not be used for political means and will remain apolitical. This includes action against members of his administration if they were found to have flouted the law, like inciting racial hatred.
Failure to satisfactorily allay concerns about a crackdown on dissent would only fuel speculations that the government is giving in to right-wing groups which of late had been pressuring the authorities to come down hard on those critical of the government or members of the ruling elites. Justice must be delivered swiftly and apolitically.
We wish to put on record that CENBET is all for the PM's statement that the rule of law must be upheld at all times.
But going after only those who are on the opposing side of the political divide (or perceived to be linked to it) will only deepen the yawning divide this country is already facing and put paid to the Prime Minister’s pledge of reconciliation after last year’s general election.
As we evolve into a matured democracy, contestation of ideas should be encouraged – not clamped down. It is perfectly normal and healthy to agree to disagree on ideas in a civil and rational manner.
This is also in line with the Prime Minister’s policy that the era of government knows best is now behind us.
Media Statement
Fri Sep 05 2014
Justice must be delivered swiftly and apolitically, said Gan. - File Photo
Putin says Russia willing to seek compromises between Iran and Israel
Russia is ready to help seek compromises between arch-foes Israel and Iran, President Vladimir Putin said on Friday, saying these would be difficult but possible.
Indonesia's free meals plan in the spotlight as Prabowo readies for office
Prabowo calls the programme one of the main drivers of economic growth, eventually set to add an estimated 2.5 million jobs.
Astro AWANI's revamped English news website, AWANI International, launches on Oct 21
Astro AWANI's revamped English platform delivers in-depth global news and expert analysis to keep you informed on key developments.
Israeli strikes kill 33 people in Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza, medics say
Residents of Jabalia said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp after pushing through suburbs and residential districts.
Liam Payne's ex-partner calls for media restraint after 'painful' death
Cheryl Tweedy used her statement to urge the media to remember they had a seven-year-old son, Bear, who could read the reports.
Analysts: Indonesia's strong MoF leadership team to boost investor confidence
Sri Mulyani Indrawati as head of Indonesia's Ministry of Finance is expected to instil confidence among investors.
Biden offers both a carrot and a stick to Israel as his term nears an end
Israel has frequently resisted US advice and has caused political difficulties for the Biden administration.
Putin says BRICS will generate most of global economic growth
Russian President Vladimir Putin will host a summit of the group in the city of Kazan on Oct. 22-24.
ISIS Malaysia's perspective of Budget 2025
An excellent rakyat-centric budget under the overarching principle of a caring and humane economy.
Budget 2025: Record increase in STR, SARA aid initiatives
The government will provide a significant boost to the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiatives next year.
Budget 2025: EPF contributions to be made mandatory for foreign workers – PM Anwar
The government plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
What policies to expect from Indonesia's new President Prabowo
Prabowo will be open to foreign investment, his aide has said, such as by offering investors management of airports and sea ports.
Budget 2025: Govt allocates RM470 mil to empower women's participation in PMKS
The Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program will be intensified as an effort to produce more female corporate personalities.
Israel sends more troops into north Gaza, deepens raid
Residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp, using heavy air and ground fire.
Indonesia ramps up security ahead of Prabowo's inauguration
Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia's president on Sunday with Vice President-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, also taking office.
Immediate allocation of RM150 mil for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.
NFOF will be operational in November 2024 with funding of RM1 bil
PM Anwar Ibrahim said NFOF will support venture capital fund managers to invest in startup companies with RM300 million set aside for 2025.
Minimum wage to increase to RM1,700 effective Feb 1, 2025
The Progressive Wage Policy would be fully enforced next year with an allocation of RM200 million, benefiting 50,000 workers.
Bursa Malaysia ends higher on Budget 2025 optimism
The benchmark index, which opened 1.85 points higher at 1,643.29, moved between 1,641.71 and 1,649.31 throughout the trading session.