GE13 to be most violent in history, says Guan Eng

The 13th general election is set to be the “most violent in history” judging from the spate of violence at Pakatan events over the past weeks, said Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng.

“Ever since Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak used the famous phrase of defending Putrajaya at all costs during the Umno general assembly on Oct 21, Umno has used the language of hate and violence.

“Najib’s infamous call that day shows how that the language of violence is no longer limited to words, but has degenerated into mindless and thuggish violence,” said Lim, citing the PM’s speech proclaiming “crushed bodies” and “lost lives”.

The Bagan MP slammed the government’s indifference to “irrefutable” video and photographic proof of violence against Pakatan supporters, saying none has been charged.

“Even those .... videotaped as beating up reporters and photographers in Penang - in two incidents in July last year and 26 February 2012 respectively - have not been charged,” he said.

He said the authorities’ failure to act has put the lives of opposition leaders and supporters in danger.

“Will Pakatan leaders, including chief ministers and elected representatives, have to be physically injured and harmed before any action is taken to protect them and ensure a violence-free political campaigning?” asked Lim.

Lim, who is also DAP secretary-general, however said despite the life-threatening atmosphere in the lead up to looming polls, Pakatan leaders remain undaunted in their efforts to “exercise our fundamental constitutional right to campaign and reach out to Malaysians”.

“... Even in BN strongholds in Johor. I will be visiting Johor next week in Kulai and Kluang,” said Lim.

“The people no longer fear such oppressive tactics as they want freedom,” he added.