Message from VPM - handing of memorandum this afternoon (2.45 pm) to the Egyptian embassy

Dear all,

The convoy of hope from London to Gaza has been attacked. Members injured & hospitalised, also arrested, including a Malaysian student. This was because the convoy members protested against the Egyptian government's refusal to allow some 50 trucks into Gaza. Bear in mind that the convoy complied with all of Egypt's demands before this.

I spoke to Mr George Galloway via telephone Wed, 6th Jan at 7.36 am (M'sian time) & he said there was "massive violence" by the Egyptian police. Stones were thrown, beatings, tear gas. Some members have been hospitalised & some arrested. Those arrested include a Malaysian student studying in the UK. Currently 10 Turkish MPs are negotiating with top Egyptian officials. Egypt has just proven to the world that there is indeed a siege on Gaza.

Viva Palestina Malaysia is very concerned for our fellow Malaysians & all the rest in the convoy. Malaysia has 9 vehicles carrying aid to the people of Gaza.

VPM will be handing over a memorandum to the Egyptian ambassador this afternoon expressing our outrage at this latest incident and demanding that the Egyptian government ensures the safety of the convoy and the quick delivery of badly needed aid.

VPM calls on all our friends to join us this afternoon when we hand over the memo and bring about a conclusion to this journey which began a month ago over thousands of miles.

Date: Wed, 6th January, 2009
Time: 2.45 pm
Place: Outside Egyptian Embassy
12, Jalan Rhu, Off Jalan Ampang Hilir, 55000, KL.

See you there & do circulate this widely.

regards

Azra Banu
Secretary
Viva Palestina Malaysia
016 209 4500