[ Laman Ehwal Semasa ReformIS ]
Date: 12 Sep 1999
Time: 21:53:08
Remote User: -
Kenyataan Tian Chua 12 September, 1999
The Poisoning of Dato Seri Anwar
The revelation of arsenic poisoning of Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim was shocking and appalling. The Malaysian people are outraged that such blatant plot could have been used. Dato Seri Anwar has been detained since September 20 last year. The government insisted that he should be placed under custody, and all attempts for had been rejected. Despite the assurance by the authorities, he was still assaulted during detention. Until today, legal prosecution has not been taken against culprit of Anwar's assault.
The suspected arsenic poisoning is a very serious issue. The authorities cannot escape the responsibility of safeguarding the well-being of the prisoners and detainees. Anwar is detained in Sungai Buluh prison under tight security. The most likely source of arsenic poisoning is from food and drink. The government should take immediate action to investigate personnel of prison authorities in charge of food supply. While we call for a Royal Commission to inquire into this serious revelation, the following actions should also be taken without delay:
Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim should be placed under the care of a panel of doctors appointed by both government and his family while being warded; An open inquiry should be conducted on all personnel involved in providing food and drink and guarding the prison; Dato Seri Anwar should not go back to prison until the inquiry is over;
Deputy Prime Minister Dato Seri Abdullah Badawi, being the Home Minister has to be held fully responsible for the appalling incident. He must provide a satisfactory explanation. In any case, the Home Minister must also an apology for the negligence of his Ministry.
It is also extremely regretable that the Prime Minister Dr Mahathir has shown no sympathy and concerns for the misfortune of Anwar. Instead he made an insinuation that family members or supporters of Anwar could have administered the poison. It is a similar insensitive and relentless comment as that was made last year when Anwar was presented with black eyes.
The people of Malaysia reject such cruel and insensitive remarks and demand the Prime Minister to retract his statement. We also strongly condemned the insidious plot to eliminate political dissidents. The people will not stand idle to allow such corrupted practices to continue. We will stand up to fight against the despot to defend truth and justice.
Long live the people's struggle!
Tian Chua
Vice President
Parti KeADILan Nasional