Malaysia

Don’t abuse the law for your benefit, Dr Mahathir tells politicians

Mass anarchy can result from doing so, says former prime minister

Updated 5 years ago · Published on 08 Jan 2021 8:12PM

Don’t abuse the law for your benefit, Dr Mahathir tells politicians
Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad says those in exalted positions will render themselves ‘inconsequential to lesser beings’ if they repeat their abusive behaviour. – The Vibes file pic, January 8, 2021

by Azril Annuar

KUALA LUMPUR – Former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad reminded political leaders not to abuse their power and the law, as it can lead to anarchy among the masses.

In a post on his blog chedet.cc today, the Langkawi MP said no one should behave as though they are above the law, no matter how high or exalted one’s position is.

“This is depressing. Malaysians should feel safe and protected by the law and not find themselves at the mercy of those in authority or in exalted positions,” he said. 

“Disrespect and abuse of the law will lead to anarchy with growing sentiment against the oppressors among the oppressed.

“And for those in exalted positions, repeated abusive behaviour will render themselves inconsequential to the lesser beings,” said Mahathir, who was prime minister twice – once from 1981 to 2003 and the next from 2018 to 2020.

The 95-year-old, who is the world’s oldest elected national leader, noted that the law had lately been used for the benefit of those in positions of authority.

He said that those in charge of maintaining the law had been forced to abuse or misuse their authority by those in higher positions than themselves. – The Vibes, January 8, 2021

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