Manoharan held for ‘certain reasons’
(The Star) KUALA LUMPUR: Kota Alam Shah assemblyman M. Manoharan, who is being detained under the Internal Security Act, will not be released just because of the brouhaha over his possible resignation, Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein said.
Manoharan was arrested under the ISA for certain reasons, he said.
“I can tolerate a review, a new approach and openness, but I will not compromise on national importance, security and the country’s stability and dignity,” he said.
Manoharan had said he would decide on his resignation after meeting DAP chairman Karpal Singh on May 19.
Hishammuddin said he had directed his two deputies to study how much money would be spent each time a by-election was held.
“There seems to be a trend now to have by-elections. The figure is not a small amount. A by-election at the parliamentary level can cost RM20mil to deploy police to ensure safety,” he added.
Hishammuddin also said he had instructed two “best legal minds” each from the police, immigration and prison departments to re-look all laws under his ministry to aid the Law Reform Committee.
“Our focus is on the ISA as it is time for a review,” he said.
