What were the historical challenges to the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012?

Question

Accepted Answer

Historical Challenges to the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012

The Peaceful Assembly Act 2012 (PAA) has faced significant challenges regarding its validity and constitutionality from various individuals and groups. These challenges often stemmed from its perceived restrictive nature and the government's application of its provisions.
Legal Challenges by Current Government Figures

Several individuals who are now part of the government, including current ministers, had previously questioned the PAA. For instance, Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad was noted to have challenged the validity and constitutionality of certain provisions within the Act. These actions highlight a historical opposition to the PAA's framework from within political circles that now hold ministerial positions.
Judicial Review Against the Act as a Bill

Beyond individual challenges, a more fundamental legal challenge was mounted against the PAA even before its enactment. Amanah president Mohamad Sabu, along with lawyer Mohamed Hanipa Maidin and two others, filed a judicial review to contest the constitutionality of the PAA when it was still in its Bill form. This action sought declaratory relief and a writ of quo warranto, indicating a deep-seated legal concern about the Act's fundamental legality.
Representation in Past Assembly Offenses

Mohamed Hanipa Maidin, a lawyer by profession, has a history of representing individuals, including Mohamad Sabu, in cases involving alleged offenses under the PAA or its predecessors. This professional engagement underscores the contentious nature of public assemblies and the legal battles that have ensued, with legal practitioners actively defending citizens against charges related to these gatherings. The PAA itself was amended in 2019 to shift from a permit-based system to a notification requirement, with organisers needing to inform the police five days in advance and secure permission from the venue owner.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

What were the historical challenges to the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends