“This is a blatant disregard for the law. All opposition leaders should be allowed in the state, because this is the time for us to express our concerns to the people.
“I was quite surprised to learn that the Sarawak immigration department had stamped on a little note that I have to leave the state by May 2,” he told reporters when met during his walkabout at Satok today.
The PKR deputy-president added that no reason was given by the department for the restriction.
“In fact, I wanted to come back to Sarawak on May 4 and stay until polling day (May 7), but I wouldn’t be allowed to come back,” Azmin said, adding that democracy stipulates that all leaders should be allowed in (the state) without restriction.
“We are a legitimate political party. What is the reason for barring us from entering Sarawak?
“The law must be reviewed again by Sarawak Chief Minister Adenan Satem,” he said.
Meanwhile, PKR Sarawak Deputy Secretary Lynette Tan told reporters that the restriction imposed on Azmin is an abuse of immigration laws by Adenan for his own political gain.
“What grounds does he have for chasing our (Opposition) peninsula leaders and workers away from Sarawak, a few days before polling day?” she asked.
Tan said, as a trained lawyer, Adenan should know that exercising “discretionary powers” in imposing bans and restrictions should be done according to the rules of justice and fairness.
“Abuse of the law for Barisan Nasional’s benefit is an act of cowardice and it reflects badly on Adenan’s integrity.”