KUALA LUMPUR – Eight youths involved in yesterday’s demonstration in Pasar Seni over the rising prices of goods have been summoned by police for questioning.
In a statement today, the coalition of youth activist groups, which had organised the event, said the eight people were called in by the Dang Wangi district police headquarters.
“Gabungan Gerakan Mahasiswa is in solidarity with those summoned and urges authorities to not intimidate those involved.
“We believe that there is no need to investigate them as the right to assemble is enshrined in the constitution.”
The protest, which had been held at the Pasar Seni LRT station yesterday evening, saw the gathering of about 100 students and youth activists who aired their grievances over the government’s alleged lack of substantive action in handling the spike in the prices of goods.
The hour-long event was carried out under the watchful eye of some 50 police officers in plain clothes and uniform, including manpower from the Criminal Investigation Department.
On Friday, Amanah took to the streets in a brief protest outside Masjid Jamek in Kg Baru to vent their frustration on the same issue, promising to organise a bigger gathering if their demands from the government are not met by July 16.
Police also called in 10 Pakatan Harapan leaders who participated in the protest, with an investigation being launched under Section 9(5) of the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012. – The Vibes, July 3, 2022