KUALA LUMPUR – Declaring an emergency in the name of Covid-19 is “unwarranted”, said the Society for the Promotion of Human Rights (Proham), as existing laws and movement curbs are sufficient to contain the disease.
In a statement today, it called on Malaysians to be aware of the grave situation such a declaration will put the country in.
“It requires the support, and not the suppression, of the people’s role in addressing this pandemic.
“What we are facing is a health issue, and not a security issue. Hence, the emergency sought by the prime minister in the name of Covid-19 is unwarranted.
“We feel that the role of the Health Ministry and government agencies must be intensified.
“A stronger private sector... and ordinary people’s support through clearer communication is of utmost importance.”
It said support from all political parties, too, is imperative, adding that it is important to have parliamentary oversight for effective governance and accountability in times of crisis.
“Proham is of the opinion that fundamental liberties, democracy and Parliament should not be suspended in order to address the increase in Covid-19 cases.
“In fact, the opposite must take place, so that there is greater transparency of data and enhanced multi-stakeholder partnership in order to instil greater cooperation among all stakeholders in addressing a pandemic that has caused great disruptions to the livelihood of ordinary people, and has led to a political crisis (with regard to) legitimacy.”
The proposal to declare a state of emergency has been slammed by various quarters, including former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad. – The Vibes, October 24, 2020
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