Thank you for supporting the hospital cleaners’ union these past few months. We are particularly happy to announce that on Friday, the five activists were granted a discharge not amounting to acquittal (DNAA).
This is a major victory for the union and the lawyers who have been working hard on the case – especially as the AG initially decided to uphold charges. A union representative said that they could not have done it without the help of Amnesty members and supporters.
So, thank you for writing letters, creating artwork, learning about the issues, voicing your concern on social media, campaigning amongst your networks, and even showing up to the Magistrate Court in Ipoh. All of your actions, large and small, have added up to make a huge difference.
While we are pleased with this decision, we also recognise there is much work to do to uphold the cleaners’ rights and improve their working conditions. As the union decides on next steps, you can support them by following their social media accounts on Twitter and Facebook.
If you’re interested in understanding more about the decision:
- A discharge not amounting to acquittal (DNAA) means that the five activists could be charged again with the same offence, but it is unlikely. Read more here.
- Bawani KS, lawyer for the activists, argued in the letter of representation that the protest could not be considered as a gathering or march related to either the economy, religion, education, sports, recreation, social or culture as stated under Section 7(1) of the MCO law.
- She also said the picketing conducted by the activists does not fall under “prohibited activity”.
- Magistrate Umzarul An Nur Umar allowed the DNAA to the activists after the prosecution team decided not to continue the prosecution after going through the representations submitted by the activists’ lawyers.
Lastly, if you’re interested in supporting Amnesty International Malaysia and staying updated on our future campaigns, click here to join us as a member.