JOHOR BARU: State Opposition politician Sheikh Umar Bagharib Ali has given his statement to the police regarding his presence at an anti-price hike rally in Kuala Lumpur on Friday (July 1).
His statement about the rally at Masjid Jamek Kampung Baru, was recorded at the Dang Wangi district police headquarters on Saturday (July 2).
The DAP central executive committee member was accompanied by lawyer Syahredzan Johan when his statement was recorded at about 10.20am.
This comes after Sheikh Umar issued a statement on June 22 to urge the public to gather in the streets of Kuala Lumpur to signal their frustration at the government over the rising cost of living.
This prompted Johor Ruler Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Sultan Iskandar to issue a statement several days later to say there are many constructive ways to address the issue, and street protests were not one of these methods.
His Majesty also said he was against the street rallies proposed by the DAP leader to pressure the government on the issue, as it is not a responsible way of finding a solution to the problem.
“Have we not learned enough from the street protests of the past? They never achieved anything, except chaos, destruction and a black mark on our nation’s history!” said Sultan Ibrahim.
Meanwhile, Sheikh Umar said the government should come up with strategic and comprehensive plans.
“Protesting is a legitimate activity within democracies. What the rakyat wants is for the government to tackle this issue seriously,” he added when speaking to media outside the police station.
