Letter to Editor
HAVE you ever been accused of something you did not do and had rumours and lies spread about you? Isn’t that a bad feeling? Consider what would happen if this happened on a much larger scale with an entire government spreading false allegations about people they don’t like.
That is precisely what is happening in Malaysia that is making many people unhappy.
Some have also described the current political situation in Malaysia as having elements of a witch hunt. The PH-BN-DAP (Pakatan Harapan-Barisan Nasional-DAP) government has been accused of engaging in selective prosecution by targeting political opponents with baseless accusations and trumped-up charges.
The recent arrest of Tasik Gelugor MP Datuk Wan Saiful Wan Jan by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has raised concerns about the government’s respect for the rule of law.
Many believe that the arrest was a malicious selective prosecution that is politically- motivated and aimed at silencing a critical voice in the opposition.
Such actions undermine the democratic principles and the independence of the judiciary system which is essential for a functioning democracy.
The people are concerned that the government is not treating everyone fairly and is disregarding democratic values and human rights. It’s as if the school bully was in charge but nobody spoke up.
What’s especially disheartening about this situation is that our country voted for change and stability in the last election. As Malaysians went to the polls to elect a new government, there was a sense of optimism.
Many were ecstatic about the prospect of a new beginning and a government that would be more accountable to the people.
What has happened since then, however, has been far from what many expected. The PH-BN-DAP coalition government has been chastised for focusing too much on pursuing political opponents rather than policymaking.
The government must acknowledge the consequences of its actions on the people and the more extensive democratic system. Instead of focusing on political adversaries, the government should prioritise policymaking that addresses the needs and concerns of all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.
Finally, the government must also concentrate on enacting policies that benefit everyone – not just themselves – while citizens must stand up for what is right. After all, we’re all in this together, and we should all be striving for a brighter future for all. – Feb 21, 2023
Mahathir Mohd Rais is the Federal Territories’ Perikatan Nasional (PN) information chief.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
