Losing political power

"Power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely" - Lord Acton

The above saying goes to show acquirement of power can change not only an individual but also large groups of people. The problem only crops up when the group of people are no longer in power.

In the article "Restructuring federal-state relations" (Aliran Monthly Vol 28 No 4 2008) Francis Loh, listed 8 instances where the Barisan Nasional bungled in conducting their business amicably with the Pakatan Rakyat state governments in the PR governments. Among them are the decision by Azalina Othman, our Tourim Minister to cancel the memorandum of understanding between her ministry's Tourism Action Council (TAC) with the PR State TACs.

On the other hand, the smaller BN parties that were literally crucified in the recent elections have become much more active in raising issues. Leaders in the Gerakan, MCA and MIC have called for the release of Hindraf 5 from detention in Kamunting, Perak.

Datuk Ong Ka TIng raised the issue of faith and inter racial relations in Malaysia during his maiden speech in the newly convened Parliament session. His counterpart from the MIC has been raising issues such as the low intake of Indians within the Malaysian civil service. In fact the Datuk Samy Vellu has even campaigning modernise the party by attracting the professionals and the younger generation.

Had they did this earlier, these smaller members of the BN wouldn't have been massacred by voters in the General Election.

The loss of five states and the traditional 2/3 majority have definitely created an impact to the BN and Prime Minister Abdullah has had to schedule his transfer of power just 100 days after entering his second term in office. This definitely for more professionalism from the BN government since Malaysians would be more aware and would definitely compare the efficiency of the BN against the PR. Also all elected representatives must remember that they are elected by the people. Policies and decisions must take into consideration the needs of the people. Priority should be given to the rakyat and this must be beyond party priorities.