Inspector-general of police Khalid Abu Bakar has said that a PKR lawmaker who argued that he erred in withdrawing outriders for Dr Mahathir Mohamad can take the issue to the court.
“He can bring the matter to the High Court and challenge my decision.
“This is a free country,” he told Malaysiakini.
Khalid was responding to N Surendran who claimed that the police chief’s arguments to validate his decision were flawed.
Earlier today, Khalid said he issued the order to withdraw police outriders for the former premier because the police cannot be seen escorting Mahathir to events which were illegal or contravened the Federal Constitution.
However, Surendran said these factors were irrelevant and Mahathir was entitled to escorts due to his former position as prime minister.
Furthermore, the PKR MP said the police must be neutral with regard to events that were political in nature, such as those concerning the Citizens’ Declaration.
Not a blanket ban
Meanwhile, Khalid explained that the withdrawal of escorts was not a blanket ban, adding that it would be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
He also stressed that the police would not compromise the safety of the former premier under whatever circumstances.
“Contrary to Surendran’s claims, we are not taking sides in the ongoing political feud.
“I have just decided that police outriders should not be used when it involves events and functions that are considered illegal such as assemblies and gatherings without permits.
“The MP is entitled to his views, and if he is not satisfied with my decision, he can bring the issue to the court, and it can be decided there,” he added. -Mkini
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