In view of the many protests against the Internal Security Act (ISA) and the claim by the government that it was for the good of the majority and that it has the mandate of the people, I think we should decide once and for all by referendum whether or not the ISA is still wanted by the so-called silent majority.

A signature campaign has its limitations. Many people do not sign because they are worried over repercussions on their job, business or profession. The government of the day plays on this fear to its advantage.

The fact that the ISA has been around for so many years is due to its impact on only a small number of people while the majority feels it is none of their business. I suppose only those who have experienced the physical and psychological torture can understand the need for its abolition. But now, more and more people are aware of how it is abused, from the legal kidnaps and turning-over process.

If the government is sincere in being transparent, the recent handing over of memorandum should have been given TV coverage, just like the first Anwar Ibrahim trial. People outside KL were wondering what was happening and the best coverage was in fact given by malaysiakini.

The TV news failed to give live coverage and the only pictures of the event shown in the news programme were of a few people, so they must have been taken early in the morning when the crowd have yet to arrive. The mainstream newspapers even showed some police personnel looking bored on duty. The picture of taxi-drivers protesting against demonstrations in Penang was given prominence instead!

The danger of suppressing information is that rumours will thrive in the void created and as top government ministers themselves have said time and again, rumours could have caused untoward incidents.

So please, treat us like adults.