Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Malaysian government defends setting up a blockade in front of Parliament

Malaysian PM "barricades himself" behind Parliament fearing Anwar's supporters

Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has defended the police for setting up road blocks around the city in anticipation of a public demonstration, causing massive traffic jams Monday.



The Prime Minister instead blamed the traffic jams to those who planned to hold demonstrations and said the police were only doing their job in maintaining order and public safety.

“The police are trying to reduce hindrances and reduce traffic jams (that would be caused by the demonstration) too,” he said, adding that businesses and shops affected by demonstrations held inside the city expected the police to ensure disturbances were kept at bay.

“But at the same time the demonstrators say police have no business disturbing them. The police have a responsibility in ensuring there is no trouble and all is safe for the public,” he said.

Abdullah reminded the demonstrators that he had advised them to hold their rallies at stadiums where “they can scream at the top of their voice and “not at these places (in the streets) because people have the right to go about their business in peace.”


Paranoid government causes massive jams in KL city center


Malaysian Parliament turned into war zone


Opposition: Rally? What rally?




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