My 11-point demand for the opposition

My 11-point demand for the opposition

Theivanai Amarthalingam | Mar 11, 08 5:40pm

I voted for the first time. While everyone is still reeling in shock, both the ruling and coalition parties and the general public, it is time to pause, ponder, take stock and work at what needs to be done next. It was a sheer case of dissatisfaction for the ruling party and 'let's give it to the opposition for a change, we don't care who the candidates are'. I, for one seriously doubt the ability of some of the candidates who stood and won the elections. I do hope that these candidates will rise to the occasion. Having said that, I do however, believe that those of us who voted for the opposition have voted in a number of good parliamentarians who will try to enhance transparency, accountability and good governance. The former BN coalition in the five states of Kedah, Penang, Perak, Selangor and Kelantan will now form the opposition and should learn how to be formidable opponents against the now ruling (opposition) coalition. It is definitely a dawn of a new era in Malaysian politics and as a friend mentioned to me, it could be the beginning. Whether it is a new beginning is really in the hands of the people we voted in and I once again hope that they use the power given to them wisely as 'power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely' [Lord Acton]. The opposition coalition must avoid at all costs internal party bickering and fights and concentrate on socio-economic and environmental justice issues instead of religion or religion-related issues. The latter is not going to be popular with the masses and will mess up the system. Having said all that, here is my list for our newly elected parliamentarians to start working on with help of course, from the rest of us. Some may be tall orders but hey, we all need to start somewhere. Here goes: 1. To abolish all race based parties and politics – we are, after all, one and the same 2. Introduce elections at local government level 3. Push for the enacting of a Freedom of Information Act – for transparency and accountability 4. Review all draconian laws and have them repealed 5. Review all conflicting legislations and amend them 6. Set-up the Independent Police Complaint and Misconduct Commission (IPCMC) 7. Revamp the Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA) and have them report directly to Parliament 8. Give more teeth to the Human Rights Commission (Suhakam) and its recommendations 9. Remove policies which are race-based in nature and ensure equal and fair opportunities for all 10. Set-up an Independent Judges Commission (with fair and equal representation from a cross-section of society) to oversee the appointment and promotion of judges 11. Engage with the public and ensure public participation at all levels in all decision-making processes Finally, I end my piece by congratulating our brand new Yang Berhormats, well done! But always be mindful of this - 'Be you ever so high, the law is above you' (Thomas Fuller) and the rest of us will be watching and following everything you say and do.