Dr M: Go ahead with rally, but keep it calm

PETALING JAYA: The government did not stop the anti-Icerd rally from going on today as doing so would go against democracy.

Despite not seeing the need for it, Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad thanked anti-Icerd (Inter­national Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination) rally organisers for their support and appreciation.

“Certain quarters think it should go on as a sign of thanksgiving for the government not ratifying Icerd.

“From the government’s perspective, if it is done to show appreciation, we want to say thank you for the support,” he said.

Earlier, organisers planned the rally in anticipation of the government ratifying Icerd.

But when the government did not do so on Nov 23, the organisers decided to go ahead with their plans – switching it to a gathering to show thanksgiving for the decision.

While he allowed the gathering to take place, Dr Mahathir advised the organisers and participants to cooperate with police and other enforcement bodies to ensure that no damage was caused to public property.

“If possible, do not litter and keep the surroundings clean. I hope the rally goes on smoothly without any chaos and disturbance,” he said.

He delivered his address on his YouTube Channel, CheDet Official.

The road closures include Jalan Hishamuddin (before the tunnel), Leboh Pasar, Jalan Tun Perak (from Masjid Jamek LRT station onwards), Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman (near Sogo), Jalan Raja Laut (near Summit Hotel) and Bulatan Dato Onn.