PETALING JAYA: It is the constitutional right of the people to assemble peacefully as it is part and parcel of a functioning democracy, says the Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (Bersih).
"The police is duty-bound to uphold the Federal Constitution by facilitating such assemblies by ensuring the safety of participants and controlling traffic.
"We are dismayed by heavy-handed actions of the police officers who obstructed the gathering to hand over memorandum by a group of farmers and activists outside Parliament yesterday (Sept 12)," said Bersih in a statement on Wednesday (Sept 13).
Bersih said it was uncalled for as peaceful assembly to pass a memorandum to Parliamentarians is democratic norm that should be facilitated, not obstructed, by authorities.
Bersih also responded to Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay's statement that the rally organiser for the Sept 16 rally to protest against Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s DNAA must apply for a permit from the authorities five days before holding the rally.
"This is factually incorrect as the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012 only requires rally organisers to notify the authorities, not apply for permit or approval like in the old days," it said.
Bersih called on the police to carry out their duties professionally by providing all necessary assistance to rally organisers so that they can exercise their democratic right.
It reminded the government's pledge in GE15 to revise and repeal the provisions of oppressive acts that can be misused to restrict freedom of expression.
