Constitutional protection for minority

Mob rule must be checked at all costs

I refer to your report “Stupid act! Protest against minority rights forum condemned”(NST May 16).

Although the strong condemnation by the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Nazri Aziz was reassuring, nevertheless it is not enough to quell the fears of ordinary peace loving citizens.

Indeed it is very distressing to know that a legitimate forum by law abiding citizens can be interrupted by mob rule in the very presence of the police who should provide the necessary protection.

Is this type of mob rule going to be the norm in the future? The thought of mob rule taking over the country sends shivers and fears among citizens who love peace and want to solve problems by negotiations and discussion in a civilized manner.

The federal constitution is the document that guarantees the rights of all citizens. If that itself is blatantly trampled upon by brutal means how can we expect to be given our legitimate rights as citizens of this country? There has been lot of talk of nationalism and patriotism, but are that only for certain groups?

The majority of Malaysians are sensible and law abiding and would engage in dialogue to solve whatever problems that surface from time to time. We should not allow a small group to upset the peace and harmony we have today. They should not be allowed to use the threat of violence to suppress the problems facing us.

The government, under the leadership of Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, should come out strongly against these people who resort to mob rule. The government must do more to stop the country sliding into lawlessness.The Royal Malaysian Police too should act firmly and fairly to protect the citizens against mob rule.

Dr.Chris Anthony