Hanipa Mat Sabu Should Quit As Minister If Putus Harapan On Jan 25

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Former deputy minister Mohamed Hanipa Maidin, known for his unabashed criticism of the Pakatan Harapan-led Madani government, has given his party president, Mohamad Sabu, an ultimatum.
He said the Amanah president, who was a regular at protests in the past, should resign as agriculture and food security minister if the government does not allow the anti-corruption gathering in Kuala Lumpur on Jan 25 to proceed unhindered.
“I spent most of my life as a defence lawyer representing him mostly on cases involving the right to a peaceful assembly.
“Sometimes, I was arrested too for defending his right,” Hanipa (above) told Malaysiakini.
Mohamad SabuTaking to social media earlier, Hanipa also noted that some “naughty voices” have suggested that the name “Pakatan Harapan” or “Pact of Hope” be changed to “Putus Harapan” or “End of Hope”.
“No worries, it is still known as PH,” he quipped.
In an earlier post, Hanipa, who served as deputy minister overseeing legal affairs during the 22-month Harapan administration from 2018-2020, said allowing the rally would boost the unity government’s image.
“Come on guys, this is too basic. A strong government will never be afraid of any peaceful assembly by any group,” he added.
Criticism against govt
Hanipa is the latest to lend his voice to a growing chorus of criticism against the government over what is perceived as attempts to stifle the gathering.
This is after Dang Wangi police chief Sulizmie Affendy Sulaiman had cautioned the public against attending the rally.
While acknowledging receipt of the organiser’s notice, he claimed it was incomplete, as it lacked the consent of the venue’s owners or occupants.
He warned that “strict action” would be taken in accordance with the law.
Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and government spokesperson Fahmi Fadzil defended the authorities.
However, the organiser has vowed to press on with the gathering which is scheduled to begin outside the Sogo shopping mall in Kuala Lumpur before proceeding to Dataran Merdeka. - Mkini

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