KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 11 — The Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM) urged Malaysians today to respect the democratic practices that allow for peaceful public demonstrations, even as the organiser of an upcoming street protest received a second death threat.
The umbrella organisation representing local churches across all denominations also urged the authorities not to close an eye to the increasingly violent threats issued with impunity by certain groups against even media practitioners for reporting them.
“Peaceful rallies should be respected, albeit we may hold differing views. Perpetrators of violence should not be emboldened by the inaction of authorities who have been mandated to maintain peace in our nation.
“Parliament should take steps to chide Members of Parliament who defend such threats to the peace and stability of our nation,” the CFM said in a statement.
It reminded the MPs who defended the violent remarks and conduct of those groups that they will be accountable for their action or lack of it at the next general elections due within two years.
CFM did not name the treats to Malaysia’s peace or the civil societies that have been on the receiving end.
However, in recent weeks, clashes have been reported between the Red Shirts movement led by Sungai Besar Umno division chief Datuk Seri Jamal Yunos and electoral reform group Bersih 2.0.
Bersih 2.0 chairman Maria Chin Abdullah received a second death threat earlier today against her person and her three children.
Graphic images of their decapitation as well as those of former Bersih 2.0 chief Datuk Ambiga Sreenevasan and secretariat member Mandeep Singh were reportedly sent to Maria’s mobile phone, news portal Malaysiakini reported.
Jamal has repeatedly warned Bersih 2.0 to call off its rally, saying that “anything can happen, including violence” if the two rival groups should meet.
Despite the threats, the electoral watchdog said it will continue with its Bersih 5 rally in the city scheduled for November 19.
