We call on the police to
ensure genuine fairness to all political parties in the coming
elections, including speedy processing of permits for rallies Press Statement by Dr Tan Seng Giaw (Kuala Lumpur, Tuesday): Today, the Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Bakri Omar said that all police leave was frozen, preparing to maintain order during the elections. We need police personnel of quality to maintain public order without favouring any side, taking action against any trouble maker.
The IGP wants candidates and their supporters to co-operate with the police to avoid any form of tension during the campaigning period. All people must help to maintain discipline and peace, ensuring that all activities are within the law.
But, the police must be seen to be truly impartial. For example, when applying for permits for rallies previously, opposition candidates felt that the police were relatively slow. On the other hand, candidates from Barisan Nasional appeared to obtain their permits faster. We hope that the police apply the same rules and speed on applications by all candidates.
Similarly, the public felt that BN candidates could do what they liked, such as going in and out of polling areas as they wish. But, Opposition candidates did not have such luck.
We propose that the police have a meeting with representatives from all parties, making clear the ground rules that must be followed by all. Then, the police must be genuinely unbiased. This is a step towards a world-class force.
(2/3/2004) * Dr Tan Seng Giaw, DAP National Vice-Chairman and MP for Kepong |