Home Minister Hishammuddin Hussein said that the Bersih 3.0 rally on Apr 28 is likely to turn off many from coming out for the ‘Janji Bersih’, now dubbed ‘Janji Demokrasi’ (Promise of Democracy), gathering on Aug 30.
The minister (right) said the violence that occurred on April 28 is a "lesson" for many.
"Not many are keen on this thing (Janji Bersih).
"But I assure the public that anyone who affects peace and stability will be dealt with accordingly, be it the gathering organiser or others," he said.
Nevertheless, he said the gathering, timed to coincide with the National Day celebrations, is unlikely to be "as bad as Bersih 3.0".
Hishammuddin was asked to comment on the threat by Kuala Lumpur Petty Traders Association to take "aggressive action" if the ‘Janji Bersih’ gathering takes place.
26 NGOs last week announced plans to hold the ‘Janji Bersih’ gathering at a corner of Dataran Merdeka, where the federal government-sponsored countdown event will take place.
Janji Bersih is a play on the federal government's 'Janji Ditepati' (Promises Fulfilled) theme for Merdeka Day, to remind it that promises of proper electoral reforms are yet to be kept.