A New Hope - That's What I Like To See

Congratulations to the Opposition! And in a few states, you guys are no longer the "opposition" - simply brilliant!

I have thought about what to write regarding the recent General Elections (and its results) and I have surfed the web, reading countless comments from bloggers and netizens'. In the end, despite the huge implications the results of this General Election have on Malaysia's political landscape, we will have no choice, but to wait and see. To see if both the Barisan Nasional (BN) government and the Opposition will/can deliver on their promises.

Those in BN will have to come down to reality and acknowledge that the people want to be served - not the other way round. The people wants development, but at the same time their rights needs to be protected. Development should be felt by every segment of society and not only the rich and well-connected. The economy might seem rosy and healthy, but the people's buying power has been on the decline for years - their pockets are thin and the economy paints a contradictory picture for them. Raising the earning and buying power is a more viable solution than controlling prices and subsidies.

For those in the Opposition and in states where they will be running the government - they will also need to take note that there isn't a moment's rest for them either. In view that they did not foresee such a big win in the elections, they need to formulate their policies - not only quickly, but these policies must realistic, achievable and seen to be implemented for the good of the people. Those promises made during their election campaigns must be kept and delivered without bias nor given excuses to keep them from being a reality. Let's bring back municipal council elections, and do away with the Official Secrets Act like what the Selangor-designate Menteri Besar is proposing to do. If the Opposition cannot prove to the people that they can be an alternative, then they will surely be consigned to dustbins in the next election.

The Opposition has always said that the people never gave them a chance. Well, now they have it. Let's see how well they can manage and govern the states, which they have been given a mandate.

We have rocked the boat and threw out a few clowns (think Zam and Samy) in the process. However, the helmsman is still the same, but his relevance is now in question. Should the alternative prove viable, I see no qualms in throwing him and his lots out in the next election.