I READ with great interest the High Court decision yesterday ordering former PKR vice-president Zuraida Kamaruddin to pay RM10 million for breaking a bond with the party.

As a voter, I am of the opinion that although the law is clear that there is a penalty for breach of contract, the question is should such a law apply to political situations such as this.

One question that comes to mind is what should a representative do if the party he or she belongs to loses focus of its original goals, vision and mission.

I believe Zuraida might have joined PKR at a time when its leaders and struggles were different.

Along the way, she might have found that the party was no longer focused on its original struggles and it was time for her to move on.

My question is, should a representative remain with a particular party even though that party is sinking – should he or she sink with the ship or bail out and go elsewhere to better serve constituents?

Does the party really want to keep its members by imposing such a bond, or is it motivated by vindictiveness?

The notion that a party can impose any condition it wishes on its members to be seriously flawed. 

Political parties are like associations and members should have the liberty to move on if they find the leaders no longer committed to the cause.

Many politicians become greedy after coming into power and this can affect their judgement and the mission and vision of the party.

After all, members serve the party for free and sacrifice plenty of time and effort, and thus they should be allowed to part ways without being penalised.

I would not want my representative to be in a party that has lost focus.

A reasonable penalty is acceptable, but RM10 million is ridiculous.

To me, this whole episode is nothing more than an act of vengeance.

Zuraida should appeal the decision and hopefully, a higher court will see things differently. –  June 24, 2023.

Alex Chung 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.