Fahmi Reza to sue government over ‘travel ban'
Graphic artist and activist Fahmi Reza yesterday claimed an immigration officer informed him that Bukit Aman had denied him clearance to travel overseas. (Bernama pic)
PETALING JAYA : Graphic artist and activist Fahmi Reza says he will sue the government after being barred from travelling abroad, despite there being no official travel ban against him.
Fahmi made the decision after Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Razarudin Husain today said there was no travel ban on Fahmi, who was prevented from flying to Singapore yesterday.
Fahmi yesterday claimed an immigration officer informed him that Bukit Aman had denied him clearance to travel overseas.
'No one in the government has taken responsibility for restricting my right to travel,' said Fahmi in a statement today.
'You say there was no official ban — but I was still prevented from leaving the country. My time and money were wasted, and now you're passing the buck.'
Fahmi criticised the authorities, saying they are quick to prosecute citizens but unwilling to be held accountable themselves.
'This time, the people will take the government to court,' he added.
Earlier today, Razarudin clarified that the police did not issue a travel ban against Fahmi and said the incident was the result of a 'misunderstanding' during a border check.
Separately, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said he had instructed the police to investigate the matter, adding that the government supports individual freedom — as long as national security and laws are not compromised.
Fahmi, known for his politically charged illustrations, was stopped at KLIA Terminal 2 yesterday while trying to board a flight to Singapore to attend a punk rock concert.
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