Press Statement by Charles Santiago in Klang on Friday, 19th September 2008:

Welcome Teresa Kok's Release, but ISA must go

I welcome the release of my close friend and DAP parliamentarian and Selangor State Executive Councilor Teresa Kok, which comes in the wake of international and local condemnation, widespread media coverage and public outrage.

The Malaysian police force must explain the reasons for Kok's arrest under the draconian Internal Security Act which allows for detention without trial. The flip flop answers given by Home Minster Syed Hamid Albar concerning the order for her arrest raises questions relating to the abuse of power by the government and police.

The inconsistent, nervous responses by Hamid and the quick move by the police to stop speculations about Kok's arrest also insinuates that it is a political move orchestrated by a nervous ruling elite to create fear and wipe out dissent in the country.

I reiterate my stand against the use of the ISA as it violates the principles of natural justice and denies people a chance to defend themselves in an open court. It is also a fundamental infringement of democratic rights.

I urge the government to release blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin, the Hindraf five and others who are currently being held under the ISA and earnestly persuade Abdullah not to invoke preventive laws to quell legitimate political activity and the freedom of speech in Malaysia.

I urge Malaysians of all stripes to come together at this historic juncture to pressure the government to abolish the ISA. ISA must GO.

Charles Santiago, MP for Klang