PENANG, Sept 14 (Bernama) -- The Conference of Political Parties Against the Draconian Internal Security Act (ISA) Sunday night called for the abolishment of the Act which they regard as violating human rights and democratic principles. The conference, chaired by DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng, condemned the arrest of Seputeh member of parliament Teresa Kok, blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin and Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng under the ISA. Tan was however released in less than 24 hours Saturday.Lim said the conference passed several resolutions, including challenging the federal government to bring those arrested to court if there were evidence that they had committed an offence."We especially want the government to prove that Teresa was involved in the 'azan' (call for prayer for Muslims) controversy, while the Kota Damansara and Kinrara mosques have stated that she was not involved," he said at the conference held at his residence, Seri Teratai, here.It was attended by several DAP, Parti Keadilan Rakyat and PAS leaders.
Lim said Sunday night's conference also called on the federal government to immediately and unconditionally release all ISA detainees, including the "Hindraf 5".
He said Penang would lead in a series of conference to urge the government to abolish the ISA and these would be held throughout the country.
Meanwhile, at a gathering organised by Suaram in front of Dewan Sri Pinang here, more than 400 people lighted up candles as a show of protest against the ISA. Penang Suaram coordinator Lau Shu Shi said the peaceful gathering was to send a message to the government that the ISA was unnecessary as it was against democratic practice.-
- BERNAMA
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