Hundreds Arrested In Malaysia Political Demo

Police have used tear gas and water cannons to disperse an estimated 20,000 strong political demonstration in the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur.

Prime Minister Najib Razak 's ruling National Front coalition has faced weeks of intense pressure to reform the election laws ahead of the national polls expected in 2012.

The demonstrators marched in defiance of the government, which had declared the planned political rally illegal.

Roads were sealed off, stations closed and water cannons were deployed near the Independence Stadium where activists were attempting to gather.

Thousands tried to reach the stadium from various parts of Kuala Lumpur, chanting "Long live the people" as they marched.

Police fired rounds of tear gas and chemical-laced water in repeated attempts to disperse the crowds, causing demonstrators to scatter into nearby buildings and alleys before they regrouped.

Witnesses said riot police armed with batons charged at some protesters and dragged them into trucks.

Authorities claimed they had arrested 1,667 people in the clampdown operation.

Most were released after being detained for several hours.

The demonstrators was eventually dispersed after a five-hour standoff with police.

President Razak claimed the protesters only represented a minority, and that most Malaysians supported the government.

Bersih coalition leader Ambiga Sreenavasan said: "What is the necessity for a show of might against right? No matter what, right will always prevail."

Opposition leaders accuse the National Front coalition of relying on election fraud to retain its 54-year grip on power.