MY feelings towards the news of the prime minister’s (PM) impending resignation are a mixture of anger, outrage and incredible sadness. Anger at the group of people who orchestrated a move that undermined the democratic principles of elections; and sadness at the upheavals experienced by sincere, honest and hardworking Malaysians since the last elections.  

However, even as the current PM prepares to depart his office, the wheels for succession are already turning and the hustling has begun for coveted positions. 

Once again, we may see decisions being made on the basis of divisive principles rather than on nation-building. The rumour mill is also spinning, with the most shocking one being the possibility of the previous ruling party and some of its members being given the top appointments. 

This will deliver the final blow for democracy and for elections. What is the purpose of elections then? Why waste precious resources if in the end, votes and election outcomes are disregarded because some leaders believe that they know better than the voters?

Let’s imagine what that would look like. We have seen the results of the last election go south, because leaders claimed that they knew best. All they needed was a majority in parliament. But if money and promise of plum positions are the main means of ensuring parliamentary majority for parties, it would mean that the wealthiest individual or party would be the most likely winner of top positions in the country. 

So, parties would only have to ensure that they are flush with cash and to keep innovating new ways of making money or ensuring that they have moneyed parties and individuals to help with such matters. And if allegations and rumours are to be believed, political kataks (frogs) are those most susceptible to such incentives. 

So then, again, the purpose of elections appears to be in question. All you need is a generous donor and you are set for a cushy state position, regardless of whatever the election outcome may be. Is this where the nation is headed? And as the nation prepares to celebrate Merdeka on August 31, one wonders if this is what the nation achieved independence for.

The long and short of it is that people have lost their faith and confidence in the administration. There is little there to inspire a sense of Malaysian patriotism. The nation needs and deserves statesmen and stateswomen who work for the nation and not just pander to the majority. 

Respect the people’s choices in elections and return the country to the Malaysian people. Thank you. – August 15, 2021.        

* A Citizen reads The Malaysian Insight.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.