FORMER de facto law minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim has urged Indian voters in Kuala Kubu Baharu (KKB) to demand a house arrest for disgraced former prime minister (PM) Datuk Seri Najib Razak who was jailed for corruption and money laundering charges.
I might agree with Zaid that Najib was more earnest in assisting the Indian community in comparison with other PMs but certainly not the present PM Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Unlike Anwar, Najib did not dance to the popular Tamil songs to endear himself to the Indian community in the country. He could have done more if he had not involved himself in questionable activities.
Generally, Indians have good words to say about Najib, especially his non-pretentious nature and as the person behind the Indian Blueprint.
Whatever the good intentions of Najib, he nevertheless broke the law and eventually had to pay the price.
KKB Indians
Last week, I wrote about the solid support the Chinese will give to the DAP candidate despite the Chinese community being fed up with the lack of changes in govt policies.
Where are the reforms in quota in the public universities and civil service? What happened…
— Zaid Ibrahim (@zaidibrahim) April 29, 2024
The Pardons Board halved his jail term from 12 years to six years and the fine imposed was reduced from RM210 mil to RM50 mil. Presently, there are attempts to get house arrest for him rather than be in the prison.
Indians might be sympathetic to Najib and his family. They might have favourable memories of Najib but to ask them to campaign for a house arrest is something else.
Indians don’t owe loyalty to politicians
Zaid being a lawyer and former law minister should know better. It would be rather odd or strange for the Indian community to ask for a house arrest for Najib.
Najib is in prison because of the crimes committed. Asking Indians to campaign for a house arrest of Najib is not something advisable for it would be seen interfering in the realm of law and order.
If Najib is given a house arrest, some sections of the Indian community might be pleased especially those who benefitted from his policies.
Contrary to what was said by Zaid, Indians do not have to prove their loyalty to UMNO or Najib to declare themselves as worthy citizens of the country. The loyalty of Indians in the country is to the nation as a whole.
Loyalty cannot be accorded to individuals or political parties. Zaid ought to know better on this matter.
The United Rights of the Malaysian Party (Urimai) is asking Indians and others in KKB polls to reject the Pakatan Harapan (PH)/DAP candidate. This is because the Madani government has betrayed the Indian community. Indians are still treated as second- or third-class citizens in the country.
It is unfortunate that Zaid is asking the Indian community to campaign for Najib’s house arrest in the KKB by-election. KKB polls is about Indians registering their pent-up frustrations and anger against the pretentious Madani government.
Perhaps, Zaid should lead a political campaign at the national level to seek the option of a house arrest for Najib. Please do not manipulate the Indians! – April 30, 2024
Former DAP stalwart and Penang chief minister II Prof Ramasamy Palanisamy is chairman of the United Rights of Malaysian Party (Urimai) interim council.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
Main pic credit: Najib Razak Facebook
