32. Permits for Gatherings?

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 22 (Bernama): Police are willing to reconsider the application by Gerakan Mansuhkan ISA (GMI) for a permit to hold a gathering here on January 5.

The gathering which was to be held at Dataran Merdeka here tonight was cancelled by the organisers.

"We will review the application and issue a permit if we are certain it will not disturb the peace," Dang Wangi police chief ACP Zulkarnain Abd Rahman told Bernama.

Checks by Bernama found the square to be what it usually is on a Saturday night without signs of any illegal gathering taking place.

The GMI had wanted to hold the gathering to call for the abolishment of the Internal Security Act (ISA).

For the police to consider issuing a permit for a peaceful public gathering is a major policy shift by the Barisan Government. I am wondering if the elections are around the corner! See my comments for police permits here.