Anwar condemns Trump supporters for storming US Capitol building

PETALING JAYA: Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (pic) has condemned protestors who stormed the US Capitol building, saying they were nothing but “an angry mob.”

He also criticised Donald Trump for making a speech during a rally earlier that was filled with “insightful language and war-like rhetoric” that many of those in attendance went on to take part in the attack.

“The result of the mob’s march was an evacuation of the building, the theft of property, and an armed standoff that resulted in deaths.

“We must not let the actions of the few reflect or diminish the cause of the greater many.

"Democracy shines brightest when the people are free to stand in opposition, but this abuse of duty and sullying of democratic ideals threaten us all, ” he said in a statement on Thursday (Jan 7).

He said the situation in the US today stands as a prime example of our deeply polarised world, quickly driven to action through hate, feed by fake news, misinformation, and manipulative rhetoric of a xenophobic nature, and a more difficult hurdle that all of us who believe in democracy must face and transcend if we are to make for a better future.

"We must denounce those who insight violence with their words and any government who would manipulate their people in such a way as to create divisions and vehement anger.

“The job of any democratically elected government is to satisfy and fulfil the mandate given by the people in their most sacred and honoured duty every election cycle.

“But democracy cannot be rushed, and while we cherish each victory, we must equally consider each side-step or even step backwards, so that we may be better tomorrow, ” he said, adding that his thoughts and prayers go out to president-elect Joe Biden, his incoming administration, and the Americans.

On Wednesday afternoon (early Thursday, Jan 7, Malaysian time), Trump's supporters stormed the US Capitol building in protest of his electoral defeat before a ceremony to formally certify Joe Biden's victory in the Nov 3 presidential election.

The protestors smashed windows to enter the building and fought with the police. Tear gas was deployed in the Capitol Rotunda.

Some officers were reportedly injured in the attacks, which also left four people dead.

Following the attacks, the Washington DC Mayor announced a 12-hour citywide curfew from 6pm on Wednesday to 6am on Thursday.