Bersih 4.0 organisers list five demands, propose institutional reforms

KUALA LUMPUR: The organisers of the upcoming Bersih 4.0 rally have put forth a list of five demands and 10 proposed institutional reforms.

Speaking at the Bersih forum today evening, electoral watchdog Bersih 2.0 chairperson Maria Chin Abdullah said: "The demands are for free and fair elections, a transparent government, the right to demonstrate, strengthening the parliamentary democracy system, as well as saving the national economy."

Coupled with this, Maria also discussed the reforms at length.
"These include reforms to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, the Election Commission and Parliament. The prime minister should also be separated from the finance ministry's portfolio, as well as the attorney-general from the public prosecutor," she said.

Also discussed was the establishment of the Independent Police Complaints and Misconduct Commission, instituting laws to protect freedom of information, ensuring all cabinet ministers and senior civil servants publicly declare their assets, and abolishing or at the very least amending draconian laws that violate the freedom of expression.

On the rally on Aug 29 and 30, Maria said participants will gather at five designated assembly points before heading to Dataran Merdeka.
"The locations are Brickfields, Pasar Seni, Dataran Maybank, National Mosque, and Sogo shopping mall," said Maria.

Six platforms will be raised at the rally site for common messages and announcements.
"The rally will not go onto the square itself but around it," she said, stating this was out of respect for the National Day preparations.

Various programmes will be held throughout Bersih 4.0's duration.
Maria also thanked the overwhelming support the organisers received from the public. "Some establishments have offered their toilets for our use, in addition to the portable ones already being rented out. Likewise offers to sponsor food as well as bands, singers and artists have stepped forth in support," said Maria.

Also present at the forum was activist Ahmad Syukri Abdul Razab, Teja MP Chang Lih Kang and Kuala Krai MP Dr Mohd Hatta Ramli.