Umno Youth has disagreed with Bersih 2.0's plans to hold its Saturday rally in Stadium Merdeka.

NONEReezal Merican Naina Merican (left), the Umno Youth information chief, said Stadium Merdeka is of historical significance and should be denied to Bersih 2.0.

“We reject Stadium Merdeka. It is not a place for a political gathering. Do in Pakatan Rakyat (administered) state. Furthermore, Stadium Shah Alam was already offered,” he said.

Earlier today, Bersih 2.0 said it had chosen Stadium Merdeka as the venue because of its historical significance.

The venue is where Tunku Abdul Rahman read the Merdeka declaration in 1957.

Reezal Merican said that Bersih 2.0 had a “hidden agenda” in eyeing this stadium, but did not elaborate.

Umno Youth had previously vowed to hold a counter-rally on Saturday to support the current electoral system, which Bersih 2.0 wants to see improved, and thwart the latter’s rally.

Dubbed the ‘Patriot gathering’, the group said it would wear red shirts as opposed to the yellow shirts worn by Bersih 2.0 supporters.

However, Umno Youth said called off its rally plans on Monday after the Agong issued a special statement, calling all parties planning rallies on Saturday to come to a compromise.

On Tuesday, the Agong granted an audience for Bersih 2.0 leaders, and it was later decided by the movement’s leaders that the rally would be held in the stadium, as part of a compromise.

Bersih 2.0 leaders today announced that they want to hold the rally at Stadium Merdeka.


Bersih wants rally at Stadium Merdeka

But Stadium Merdeka refuses Bersih's booking

Najib: I didn't say I will meet Bersih

Cabinet shoots down rally in KL stadium proposal

Stuffed ballot box, 'clone voters' found

Umno Youth: Bersih can't use Stadium Merdeka

Pakatan backs Stadium Merdeka proposal

Indoor rally sets dangerous precedent: Karpal

Gov't briefing on Bersih threat comes unstuck

Mahathir says demo only as a last resort

 'Fitness activity' to keep them in school on Saturday

Bersih 2.0: A long march to freedom