KOTA KINABALU, Aug 28 — Heeding a warning by the police, organisers of Bersih 4 in Sabah today gave their assurance to participants that the gathering will remain orderly and within the law.

Chairman Jannie Lasimbang said organisers will do their best to make sure the event does not turn unruly or invite untoward incidents.

“We want to dispel any fears of any danger during the rally. Safety and public order is our main concern and we will not do anything to jeopardise it.

“We have told participants to bring placards and banners but anything provocative or seditious will be removed,” she said.

Buoyed by city police telling them that the park will not be closed off during the duration of the 34-hour rally, Lasimbang said the group has programmes planned from 3pm to 9pm on Saturday, ranging from talks, creative workshops, prayers and musical performances.

But the highlight and one of their main concerns will be the “walk for democracy” on Sunday, which will start at Likas Bay Park II at 9am for 6km towards the city.

Lasimbang said that police are discouraging the walk, considering it a march which can be charged under the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012.

“It’s not that we are trying to get around the law, we will not be unruly but it is a symbol to let people know we are serious about our five legitimate demands.

“Just talking is not enough. We have to walk the talk and show that democratic reforms must come,” she said, adding that some risks were worth taking for the sake of the country.

Lasimbang said those who get into any trouble with the police can call the urgent arrest team or Sabah Lawyers Association team of volunteer lawyers for assistance.

Police today reiterated their stand that the assembly was unlawful and they would take action against rally participants.

But the Sabah law association today said that the assembly could not be declared illegal just because it did not get the land owner’s approval.

The Sabah Bersih committee have maintained it will go ahead with the event and have highlighted five points of assembly, with the shortest being 400m and longest 3.5km from the location.

“People can start gathering at 1pm at KPD Tamu grounds, Sabah Trade Centre carpark, City mosque, Plaza Juta and Anjung Selera parking lot and walk toward Likas Bay Park II, through the jogging track along Tanjung Lipat,” she said.

The locations were chosen for their accessibility, car parking space, walking and cycling distance.

Basic necessities will also be provided for those opting to stay overnight.