Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Sorry, can you repeat the question?

blog9Who is the rightful Menteri Besar of Perak? That seems to be the trendiest discussion in town. In order to determine if what has been done, what is happening, what should happen next, or even what should have been done are democratic, we need to look at the big picture and re-examine the facts. Certain parties have laid down their aces and is playing by the royal status quo, but are their actions ethical or even make sense?

Culprits of the current political tornado in Perak are 2 assemblymen and 1 assemblywoman who switched from being Alliance members to independent. My question on this is, when one is being elected as a member of one party, why is he/she allowed to jump parties or become independent and still keep the seat? Under many circumstances, candidates were being chosen based on the parties they represent. The people put their trust in these parties, because they do not know the candidates personally most of the time. So why are provisions in the constitution allowing assemblymen/assemblywomen to retain their seats under such circumstances? The correct procedure should be to have another election. If the concerned assemblymen/assemblywomen wish to continue serving the people, they may contest again.

With reference to the above, the position of Menteri Besar should be filled by representative of the ruling party based on the election results. It is undemocratic not to let the people choose who they want as leaders. An individual should not be given the authority to decide on behalf, namely the Sultan as he may be influenced by various factors. The people may respect him as a royalty, however in order to do what is best for the people, leave the decision to them. A ruler who is fair, just and considerate needs to listen and be reasonable.

Kings and queens are persons of the past. They are not in any way more superior compared to normal human beings (well except for the wealth and benefits) whether they are royal by blood or by marriage. We do respect them for their statuses, but then again they should not get involved in politics unless as voters and except if they run for congress. They may continue to carry their titles but the rest should be left to the democratic system (as if) adopted by the country.

Malaysia is supposed to be a democratic country, but what is our system saying now? Where aren’t cries of the people being heard?

For those who caused the unrest, please have some dignity and return your seats to the people. The people have spoken and they clearly do not want you anymore. What makes you think you will be able to retain them in the next election? Is this just some kind of circus show for your own benefit? If it is, then I offer you my standing ovation. You have put on quite a fancy masquerade.

As for those who is ignoring our pledge, why is the seat so important? Why are you taking over with brute force? You may have the advantage to many things (such as the police force) being the central government, but do you think that will make the people like you? Do you have something to gain? Your petty tricks disgust me!!

The curtain is drawn and the showdown has begun.

May the people be victorious.

May democracy wins.

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