* Commentary by Mustafa K. Anuar

THERE have been mixed reactions to Muda’s decision to go it alone in the elections in six states after it was spurned by Pakatan Harapan.

Some observers backed the young party’s decision to stand under its own banner after it failed to meet PH, particularly PKR, representatives to discuss mutual interests and a reinforced political alliance.

Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail was reported to have been too busy to read Muda’s letters seeking a meeting, which suggests arrogance.

This is despite the fact that both parties supposedly share the political objectives and concerns, such as good governance, transparency and accountability, and ending corruption.

While the outcome of the meeting might not have been satisfactory, Saifuddin’s unwillingness to entertain the idea of a cordial discussion would have killed the goodwill between the two parties.

Muda was consequently forced to go to the polls under its own steam, depending on nothing more than its ideals and principles to win over the voters.

As the observers contended, Muda should go ahead even if it means taking on the uphill task of competing with bigger, better equipped and bigger coalitions.

Detractors predictably argued that Muda’s decision would only help split the votes to the advantage of PN, the nemesis of PH that is eager to capture as many states as possible in the elections.

They suggested that the youthful party should instead maintain ties with, and provide support to, the contesting partners in the unity government so that only two-cornered fights would prevail. 

Worse, there are those who dismissed Muda’s move as the petulance and hastiness of the youth. 

But then, haste may not necessarily be the preserve of the young. Some older politicians showed not too long ago how quick they were to seize Putrajaya by hook or by crook.

Muda does have certain disadvantages, such as limited experience and lack of a grassroots network and resources, which could be a big hurdle to its goal of winning the elections. 

Thus, Muda will have to be prudent and realistic about the seats it wants to contest. 

That said, time is on Muda’s side. Even if it loses the election, its young leaders would still have the luxury of time to learn the ropes and at the same time allow the electorate enough opportunity to know exactly what they stand for, their ideals and ideas.

If there is one thing that Muda has brought to the fore, it is that its very existence presents a challenge to the established political culture in the country where old politicians tightly cling to their positions as party leaders, while the younger leaders would have to wait for their turn for a long time.

To be sure, there will be challenges along the way that serve to test the strength and tenacity of the youthful party.

At the same time, Muda can also play a useful role of providing checks and balances in the democratic system.

The littoral combat ship scandal and political appointments in government-linked companies are just two of the cases that come to mind.

Muda will have to prove that it is made of sterner stuff. – July 3, 2023.