CHAPTER 2 - REPORT OF THE COMPLAINTS AND INQUIRIES WORKING GROUP Submission of a memorandum on detention under the Emergency Ordinance (d) Right to Peaceful Assembly Freedom of peaceful assembly is a right guaranteed by Article 10(1) (b) of the Federal Constitution2 and Article 20(1) of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).3 Based on these articles, the Commission reiterates its position that it is the right of members of the public to assemble and express their views in a peaceful manner. However, the Commission stresses that these rights should be carried out responsibly. The Commission reiterates its position that it is the right of members of the public to assemble and express their views in a peaceful manner. However, the Commission stresses that these rights should be carried out responsibly. The Commission lauded the Prime Minister’s announcement on 15 September that the Government would review and amend or repeal laws which are no longer relevant, including Section 27 of the Police Act 1967. The Commission also welcomed certain aspects of the Peaceful Assembly Bill 2011, passed by Parliament on 20 December. However, the Commission is of the opinion that extensive consultations should have taken place with the public, as the Bill may not reflect their wishes for a more open and free society and a more robust democracy. 2 Article 10(1): Subject to Clauses (2), (3) and (4)(b), all citizens have the right to assemble peaceably and without arms Article 10(2): Parliament may by law impose on the right conferred by paragraph (b) of Clause (1), such restrictions as it deems necessary or expedient in the interest of the security of the Federation or any part thereof or public order 3 Article 20(1): Everyone has the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association 45