I have come across some comments complaining about the lack of support shown by some opposition leaders on the death of Baharuddin Ahmad during the Bersih rally. But TG Nik Aziz attended, so did Anwar and others. There were the usual accusations that the police did not help enough to save him which seemed probable under the circumstances. The police seemed to have forgotten what they have been trained to handle medical emergencies regardless of whether a person is guilty of anything. There was even a serious accusation about the FRU attacking from both sides, those who were with Anwar Ibrahim, using tear gas and water cannons, claiming the intention was meant to injure them. So it was most disgusting when I watched the news which had our DPM commenting that Anwar is a good actor in pretending to be injured one moment and minutes later seemed alright. This reminds me of what Dr. Mahathir claimed before that Anwar's black eye could have been self-inflicted! Did any of the ministers say anything about the death of Baharuddin Ahmad, other than disclaiming responsibility of the police? No condolences from them? All because he was one of those who took part in an illegal rally?
I am not proud to say that I was one of the many who did not attend the rally even though I supported it. I am older than Baharuddin so if I had attended, I could end up like him too. I have very sensitive eyes which could not stand even the smoke from joss sticks or mosquito coil, so chemically laced water could be harmful to me. I have an injured knee which I have to be careful when climbing stairs because it gave way once which nearly had me falling down the stairs. I know of people who are older, or one man who had only one leg who took part in the rally. But each person decided for himself or herself as to how much one wanted to be involved. There were some who were there just for the excitement or to be caught on camera or video to get some limelight! Whether you take part or not, there will be criticisms, especially based on which side of the political divide you are on.
If ever I was ready to die, then to have died in such a noble rally would have been worth it. I sincerely hope Baharuddin Ahmad's unfortunate death will not be in vain. My deepest condolences to his family. Blogger Hussein Hamid has some wonderful pictures of him just before he collapsed... and died as a hero of Bersih!
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