The arrest of Mohamad Zulkifli Ismail for allegedly stabbing two men who were trying to rob his house, in the name of self-defence, has caused a public uproar. The police once again are taking a beating for carrying out their duties. I personally do not agree with the arrest, but rules are rules, and legislations are to be abided.

However, I am a little surprised that once again the Malaysian Bar Council has gone silent. When the National Security Council (NSC) Bill was tabled in the Dewan Rakyat, the president of the Bar Council released an entire article condemning the act within 48 hours.

This is not the first time an individual has got arrested to attacking a robber in self-defence. I am a little puzzled as to why hasn’t the Bar Council taken any measures to protect the people who merely defend themselves in a robbery. The Bar Council functions to uphold the cause of justice, express views on matters of legislations, and many more.

Why has the Bar Council been sleeping on such important matters when it is not the first time such a thing has happened? They speak against suppressing people, but somehow fail to act in at least trying to amend the legislation to protect those who act in self-defence.

When the case arrives in court, one of their own kind would defend the robbers, and as usual Steven Thiru, who is the president of the Malaysian Bar will remain quiet. Is the Bar Council filled with hypocrites? Do they only champion issues of the masses for the sake of publicity? Are they quiet because isolated cases like Zulkifli will not give them much airtime?

Where are Ambiga Sreenevasan and her human rights people? Isn’t this the time they also do something? Are they going to keep quiet just like they did when their friends allegedly conspire with terrorists?

It is unfair for the police to bear the brunt alone. The police are acting in accordance to the penal code. Suggestions on amendments of the code is the responsibility of the Bar Council, which they have failed to carry out time and time again. Talk is cheap. Instead of only running their mouths, Thiru and co should start doing some work. At least make an attempt for changes.

If Zulkifli is pronounced guilty of murder, the public will lose all hope with the courts. It will not only mean a death sentence to Zulkifli, it would also be a demise of the system. Who shall be blamed for it? The job of the police is to arrest. The decision of punishment is made by the court judge.

Personally, the Bar Council that has been active only in voicing opinions will need to shoulder the responsibility if Zulkifli is punished. Thiru should resign as the Bar Council president because he has failed to address such circumstances.