C4: Police probe against activist an act of intimidation

LETTER | The Centre to Combat Corruption and Cronyism (C4) calls upon the police to drop all investigations against Fadiah Nadwa Fikri for allegedly participating in a public rally during the week of intense political turmoil in our country.

Fadiah is a lawyer, an activist, and a member of our team. She is dedicated to the reform agenda involving good governance, human rights and anti-corruption initiatives.

Her speech cannot be considered seditious by any proportions, given the political treachery and conspiracy that has taken place over the last week, but rather an expression of disappointment and betrayal by our politicians who put personal interest over national interest.

The investigation against Fadiah and other activists that took part in the peaceful protest a few days ago is being seen as an act of intimidation and a warning to all peaceful Malaysians in voicing their objection towards the political treachery and the forming of a backdoor government.

C4 calls upon the police to step up its role during this time of murky and dirty politics and protect demonstrators and the public alike.

The police instead of working to stifle public dissent during this challenging time for Malaysia, should instead facilitate and help ensure security for the peaceful acts of dissent. It is paramount that politicians with treacherous intentions be held accountable by the people.

Gathering to voice our dissatisfaction and objection towards the forming of the backdoor government is a necessary outcome. The right to assembly is clearly stated in the Peaceful Assembly Act, and further enshrined under Article 10 of the federal constitution.

It is of utmost importance, now above all, that the democratic space must be upheld for all citizens as they express their loss of confidence, betrayal, and abandonment of many of their MPs in undermining their vote, and the trust of the Malaysian people.

Police action in investigating Fadiah and other activist for this matter, does not conform to the rights of Malaysians as enshrined in the federal constitution.

As such, C4 calls upon the Inspector-General of Police Abdul Hamid Bador to intervene and stop all actions against Fadiah and other activists singled out for organising public gatherings over the last few days.

C4 will be gathering with Fadiah outside Bukit Aman at 11am tomorrow in a show of solidarity. 

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.