Media statement by Teresa Kok Suh Sim in Shah Alam on Monday, 21^st May 2012:

Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin must intervene in targeted violence and intimidation of Datuk Ambiga

The continued targeted intimidation of Bersih Co-Chairperson Datuk Ambiga Sreenevasan must end immediately and this can only be done with the stern action of the Malaysian police through the intervention of the government.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein must call for the cessation of the intimidation and instruct the police to take action against the errant traders and whomever else that has been party to the harassment and targeted violence against former Bar Council President Ambiga, and other Bersih supporters.

The most recent incident aimed at Ambiga, over the past weekend in Melaka, is a clear example of how such harassment can escalate to violent outcomes. Especially given the police's unresponsive approach thus far towards the 'protests'. It was fortunate that Ambiga chose at the last minute not to travel to Melaka to speak at the event in Merlimau, which deteriorated to violence.

The protest, which was apparently organised by members from Umno and Perkasa, resulted in some among the anti-Bersih demonstrators reportedly throwing stones and eggs towards participants at the event. This resulted in damage to several vehicles. There were also injuries sustained by some event participants. Among the victims of the violence were elected members of the Melaka state assembly. This is inexcusable and without a doubt, a result of the lack of police and government intervention and condemnation of the targeted harassment towards Ambiga till today.

As there are reported further plans by traders' to set-up stalls in front of Ambiga's residence this Thursday and Friday, I cannot stress enough how crucial it is for the government and police to call for an end to all such plans. The police must prevent these protests from turning uncontrollable and violent. They must be on alert and prepared to stop any unwanted acts outside Ambiga's home or office. Hishammuddin must not delay any further in issuing a caution against the traders' plans.

Given that such 'unlicensed' protests infringes on numerous national laws, such as Section 46 of the Street, Drainage and Building Act, Section 110 of the Road Transport Act, and needless to say it infringes on Ambiga's basic right to peace and security in her own home, the government and police have no excuse not to act against any future planned unsavoury activity outside Ambiga's home.

* Teresa Kok Suh Sim, Secretary of DAP Wanita & MP for Seputeh