LDP: 'Justice for Zara' Rally Exploited for Political Gain, Businessman's Remarks Unnecessary
PETALING JAYA - The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) of Sabah has voiced strong concerns over the recent 'Justice for Zara' rally in Kuala Lumpur, alleging that it was hijacked for political agendas. The party specifically criticised businessman Albert Tei for introducing unrelated statements during the event, diverting attention from the core issue of seeking justice for Zara Qairina Mahathir.
The Zara Qairina Mahathir case has deeply resonated with Malaysians, sparking widespread outrage and calls for accountability in the wake of the alleged assault. The rally, intended to amplify these calls and pressure authorities, drew significant public attention. However, LDP believes that the inclusion of political commentary by Tei undermined the rally’s focus and potentially diluted its impact.
“The primary objective of the rally was to demonstrate solidarity with Zara and her family, and to urge the authorities to expedite the investigation and ensure justice is served,” stated a spokesperson for LDP. “Introducing unrelated political rhetoric was a disservice to Zara and her cause. It risks undermining the public’s trust and diverting attention from the real issue at hand.”
LDP's criticism highlights a growing concern about the potential for public demonstrations to be exploited for political purposes. While the party acknowledges the importance of freedom of expression and the right to peaceful assembly, it emphasizes the need for rallies to remain focused on their intended purpose. They argue that straying from the core message can confuse the public and dilute the effectiveness of the movement.
Albert Tei’s remarks, which remain unspecified by LDP, have been deemed inappropriate and irrelevant by the party. They believe that such actions can be perceived as opportunistic and manipulative, potentially damaging the credibility of the 'Justice for Zara' movement.
The LDP’s statement serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining focus and clarity in public demonstrations, especially those addressing sensitive social issues. They urge all participants in future rallies to prioritize the core message and refrain from introducing unrelated political agendas. The party reaffirms its commitment to supporting Zara and her family in their pursuit of justice and calls for a swift and thorough investigation into the allegations.
The case continues to draw national attention, and LDP's decision to speak out underscores the complexities surrounding public sentiment and the potential for political maneuvering within social movements. It remains to be seen how this criticism will impact the ongoing efforts to secure justice for Zara Qairina Mahathir.