KUALA LUMPUR – The Sarawak government has rejected the application by Bersih chairman Thomas Fann to enter the state as part of the electoral watchdog’s Ketuanan Pengundi Roadshow team.
In a statement today, the non-government organisation (NGO) voiced their regret that Fann has not been allowed entry once again, even though they are due to hold a town hall session in Kuching tomorrow.
“Bersih regrets the decision of the Sarawak state government. Fann was on Sarawak’s “no entry list” since 2016.
“While the Immigration Act grants Sarawak and Sabah the right to deny entry to any non-residents of the East Malaysian states, it was never intended to restrict legitimate political activities under Section 67 of the act,” said the statement.
The group’s nationwide roadshow aims to bring awareness to the Malaysian public over the “urgent” electoral and political reforms needed to strengthen the country’s parliamentary democracy prior to the upcoming 15th general election.
“Fann, as the chair of our organization, is key in spearheading this important campaign and was expected to address this Saturday’s town hall in person.”
Undeterred, Bersih said that Fann will deliver his address through a virtual platform even though he would have preferred to meet and greet his friends and supporters personally. – The Vibes, July 1, 2022
