“Somebody in authority with conscience, please release PSM-6”, that was the cry of Datuk Dr. Ambiga Sreenvasan at the candle light vigil held last night at Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur, which was greeted by loud cheers from the congregating crowd that included several members of the CLS.
Those gathered came in support for the release of Dr. Michael Jeyakumar, M Saraswathy, Choo Chon Kai, M Sukumaran, A Letchumanan and Sarat Babu. The 6 who are members of the Malaysian Socialist Party (PSM) have been detained without trial under the Emergency Ordinance 1969 since July 2. Their habeas corpus application is scheduled for hearing on August 5.
Several members of parliament were present at the gathering including Tian Chua, Member of Parliament for Batu and Senator Ramachandran who took turns to address the solemn crowd. “When citizens are denied their basic rights, it is our duty to stand up,” said Senator Ramachandran.
auntie_bersih__ambiga.pngAlso present at the gathering was Anne Ooi, dubbed ‘Aunty Bersih’ by the media. She had stood out as an icon of ‘liberty’ during the July 9th BERSIH rally. Her humble appearance overwhelmed those who came to greet her.
The gathering was briefed that 25 days have passed and there has been no sign of release of the 6 detainees. Thus far they were only allowed 2 visits by their respective family members throughout their detention. They have had no privacy during these visits. There was always a police officer present during the visits.
After about an hour, the crowd dispersed peacefully, chanting Hidup! Hidup! Hidup Rakyat! Bebas! Bebas! Bebas PSM-6!
The candle light vigil will continue to be held every night.