PAS: Jan 6 Rally in Solidarity with Najib Razak is Lawful
PETALING JAYA: PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari has said that a rally in solidarity with former prime minister Najib Razak on January 6 is lawful, as long as there are no elements of provocation that violate the law.
Constitutional Right to Assemble
Fadhli emphasized that Malaysians have the constitutional right to assemble as long as there are no elements of provocation that violate the law. "As of now, we have no plans to cancel it as we believe it is lawful. However, we will continue to monitor developments from time to time," he said in a text message in response to a call by the Inspector-General of Police, Razarudin Husain.
Umno’s Withdrawal from Rally
Fadhli’s comments came as Umno announced it was pulling out of participation in the rally following the Istana Negara statement and a call by police for the public not to take part in the rally. "We believe that the right to assemble is guaranteed in the Federal Constitution, and we will not violate the laws enshrined in it. We believe that the people have the right to assemble for any reason," Fadhli said.
Rally Details
The rally, which was initially announced by PAS, is scheduled to take place on January 6 at the Palace of Justice in Putrajaya at 9am. The event is expected to draw a large crowd, with Umno, MCA, MIC, and Bersatu also announcing their participation. However, in a statement tonight, Umno said it will not participate in the event in deference to the king’s wishes and Razarudin’s directive.
Background on Najib’s Appeal
Najib is currently serving a six-year prison sentence, halved by the pardons board from the initial 12 years, following his conviction in the SRC International case. The rally is being held on the day the Court of Appeal will hear his application for leave to adduce fresh evidence in his appeal to serve the remainder of his jail term under house arrest, an order which he claims was issued in a supplementary order to the pardons board announcement.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the January 6 rally in solidarity with Najib Razak is set to go ahead, with PAS reaffirming its commitment to the event. While Umno has withdrawn its participation, the rally is expected to draw a significant crowd, with other parties and individuals announcing their support for the event.
FAQs
Q: Is the January 6 rally in solidarity with Najib Razak still going ahead?
A: Yes, PAS has reaffirmed its commitment to the event.
Q: Why is Umno withdrawing from the rally?
A: Umno has announced it will not participate in the event in deference to the king’s wishes and Razarudin’s directive.
Q: What is the purpose of the rally?
A: The rally is to show solidarity with Najib Razak and to support his appeal for leave to adduce fresh evidence in his appeal to serve the remainder of his jail term under house arrest.