Campus polls violence continues over the years because thuggery is condoned in mainstream politics, said DAP’s Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim.
A UKM student activist Muhammad Syarir Rahimi Shukri sustained multiple slashes when unknown assailant attacked him with a knife while he was doing rounds during the campus polls campaign period.
“The unfortunate incident foreshadows what will happen in the future if the ruling party is allowed to continue with its tyranny,” he said.
Sim (photo) said the incident is reminiscent of attacks against opposition elected representatives, as well as a demonstration by Federal Territories Umno Youth at the DAP headquarters which caused damage to property.
“This culture of thuggery practiced by the ruling party is poisoning the minds of their supporters at university level.
“Anyone who does not agree with the ruling party is opposed not through reasoned debate, but violence. […]
“If left unchecked, students will accept that the only way to solve an issue is through violence,” he said.
He also urged UKM to take full responsibility for the incident because it happened on campus. The incident is now under police investigations.
“Otherwise, worse could happen. The safety and lives of our children at university is under threat,” he said.
Campus polls are closely watched as a barometer of youth political sentiments.
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