Deputy minister in PM’s Dept challenges Zahid to debate Sosma repeal
KUALA LUMPUR: Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Mohamed Hanipa Maidin has challenged opposition leader Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to a debate over the government’s plan to abolish the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (Sosma).
Hanipa, who is Sepang member of parliament, said the debate could be telecast live if Zahid accepted the challenge.
He said the debate would be the perfect avenue for people to know about the issue and resolve the confusion caused by Zahid, who had claimed the country needed Sosma.
Hanipa said he was willing to take on Zahid in his official capacity as de facto deputy minister of law.
Yesterday, Zahid questioned the government’s plan to abolish Sosma.
He also questioned if the move would lead to the revival of the Internal Security Act (ISA), which was used to detain dissidents in the past.
He said Sosma was needed to help maintain public order, especially terrorist threats.
Earlier this week, Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad had announced that the government would repeal laws that are oppressive, especially Sosma.
He said Sosma, which was introduced by former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s administration, allowed the government to arrest anyone without having to go to court.
“If an individual dies, there will neither be inquiry nor action taken against those who killed him.
“That is the law passed by Najib and we will repeal it,” Dr Mahathir was quoted as saying.
Dr Mahathir said the Pakatan Harapan government would adhere to the rule of law by enforcing laws that would protect the people.
“The people will be protected by fair laws so that if they commit any offence, they will be judged by the court, which will determine whether they are guilty or not.”