Lim said Fahmi’s detention went against the spirit of “reformasi” promised by the Madani government and could be construed as a form of intimidation towards critical voices.
“I call upon the police to immediately release Fahmi from detention. The freedom of speech safeguarded under the Federal Constitution must be respected and upheld, unless there are clear violations (such) as in cases involving the royal institution,” Lim said in a statement.
The DAP MP also expressed support for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim who, on Dec 21, said he did not believe that action should be taken against Fahmi over his controversial artwork. Anwar was reported as saying that not every criticism of the government needed to be investigated by the authorities.
Separately, youth party Muda described Fahmi’s arrest as “disappointing”, saying it was ironic that the Sedition Act 1948, which was once strongly opposed, was now being used to silence the people.
“The one who should be arrested is not the activist (Fahmi) who draws satire, but rather the ones who are involved in corruption scandals and abuse (of power),” Muda secretary-general Amir Hadi said in a statement.
Muda and Lim join rights group Suara Rakyat Malaysia (Suaram) in condemning Fahmi’s arrest.
In a statement yesterday, Suaram executive director Sevan Doraisamy labelled Fahmi’s detention “a draconian response” to the exercise of freedom of expression through satire.
Sabah police commissioner Jauteh Dikun, who confirmed the arrest yesterday, said Fahmi would be investigated under the Sedition Act and that a remand order would be applied for.
Fahmi was earlier reported as saying that he was on his way to the Kota Kinabalu police headquarters to be questioned over his latest graphic, which had been turned into a mural in Kota Kinabalu.
He said he is being investigated for sedition, the improper use of network facilities, and intentional insult with intent to provoke a breach of the peace.
“If you don’t hear any updates from me by 8pm, that likely means I will be spending the night in lock-up,” he said in a post on X.
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