HOME Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has criticised the opposition for attempting to pressure Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to resign through street demonstrations rather than through democratic means such as a no-confidence vote in Parliament or elections.
“If the opposition truly respects democratic principles, they should have done it through proper channels – either in Parliament or through the electoral process,” Saifuddin told reporters on Saturday.
“But why has nothing been done in Parliament? There’s complete silence there. The reality is, the opposition simply doesn’t have the numbers. So instead, they’ve taken it outside Parliament and into the streets, hoping the government will overreact.”
He was speaking after officiating the new Kedah State Child Interview Centre, alongside Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay and Kedah Police Chief Datuk Adzli Abu Shah.
Saifuddin said that while the government does not restrict the right to peaceful assembly under the Federal Constitution, organisers must still comply with laws under the Peaceful Assembly Act.
“We in the MADANI government uphold the constitutional right to free speech. Even when the courts ruled that organisers don’t have to inform police beforehand, we respected that decision,” he said.
“However, under the law, there are still conditions – no children, no dangerous weapons, no flares or fireworks. If these rules are breached, police will have no choice but to act,” he added.
Responding to the ongoing anti-Anwar protests, the minister also refuted claims that the people were suffering under the current administration, noting steps taken by the government to reduce living costs.
“They call for Anwar to step down – but Anwar has already reduced fuel prices. They say people are struggling – but tariffs on electricity have been lowered. Still, they demand more,” he said.
Saifuddin urged the opposition’s senior leadership to act within legal bounds.
“Many of the opposition leaders are seasoned politicians. They should know better than to push boundaries. We call on them to respect the law,” he said. - July 26, 2025
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