A number of rallies were held in Kuching, protesting against the election of Abdul Taib Mahmud as Sarawak’s governor.
Organised by civil society movements, the protest were made of small groups armed with banners and posters. Peter John Jaban, one of the organisers said the protest were held in front of The Spring Supermarket, Third Mile Bazaar, Kuching Central and Batu Kawah.
Taib resigned as chief minister on Friday after 33 years at the helm, succeeded by Adenan Setam.
Meanwhile, Borneo Resources Institute Malaysia (BRIMAS) denied having anything to do with the rally held on Saturday.
“As reported in a local daily, we are not the organisers and we are not aware of any plans for the rally,” said Mark Bujang, the executive director of BRIMAS in response to a statement made by Chief Political Secretary to the Chief Minister Abdullah Saidol, who strongly condemned the rally plan.
Bujang continued: “However, if such rally is to be staged by civil society organisations in Kuching, we cannot stop them as it is their constitutional right to gather and voice their concerns. We also would like to state clearly that BRIMAS is apolitical and has nothing to do with any political appointments. BRIMAS would like to see a respected and reputable head of state helm Sarawak… (Someone) who is free of any alleged corruption and abuse of power.”
As for Taib’s appointment, Bujang said BRIMAS would submit a petition to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong based on the reports accusing the politician of alleged corrupt practices.
“We believe the King would examine the reports and with his good judgement, revoke the appointment of Taib as head of state. It is fundamental that a head of state be cleared of any allegation of corruption and abuse of power,” he added.
(Source)
