Mahathir vows to check political violence

By Amit Baruah

SINGAPORE, DEC. 24. The Malaysian Prime Minister, Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, has warned that his Government will crack down on political violence and those who incite racial sentiments and exploit religion.

In an interview to the Malaysian news agency, Bernama, Dr. Mahathir said: ``As such, next year, we hope this can be overcome... we are studying the measures.''

The Prime Minister's statement came after three leaders of the National Justice Party were charged with illegal assembly and rioting during the recent Lunas by-election, a seat which the ruling Barisan Nasional (National Front) lost. The leaders have been bailed out and their trial will begin in April.

According to Dr. Mahathir, the tendency to indulge in violence was obvious in the by-election - where the Opposition put voters in fear.

``It was obvious that they frightened the voters... this does not augur well for the nation if left unchecked as it may become rampant,'' Dr. Mahathir was quoted as saying.

He said elements of violence could also be seen in the ``boldness'' of the Opposition to challenge the police and contravene the law. There could be chaos in the country.

Apart from political violence, groups like the Al Ma'unah (an extremist Islamic group) had been responsible for creating racial tension in the country, he maintained.

``Developments in 2000 are disheartening. Even though we are satisfied with the economy, in terms of politics we have seen the existence of violence''.

The Prime Minister said the inclination of Opposition parties to exploit Islam by calling others infidels was also worrying, especially on university campuses.

``Unfortunately, I'm saying it outright that Opposition parties have penetrated the campuses and incite students into opposing the Government,'' the Prime Minister said.

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Section  : International
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