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Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Democracy is not just elections

If we believe that politics is too important to be left to politicians only and democracy is not just about elections, then the way forward is to develop independent forces within the civil society. 

While some people argued that we should support Pakatan Rakyat to win elections so they can bring about greater democracy in Malaysia, we must also understand that the struggle for democracy does not end with a Pakatan’s victory. 

What mechanisms are there to ensure that Pakatan does not take the same road as Barisan Nasional, or becomes worse, if they are in power? 

Even if Barisan remains in power, there is no harm for Pakatan to accommodate independent forces within the civil society. In fact, Pakatan and these independent forces can work together to provide checks and balance against the ruling party.

Likewise, if Pakatan takes over the government, these independent forces can also cooperate with Barisan, which becomes the new opposition.  

No matter who becomes the government, it is more important to ensure that democracy and good governance prevail. For that to happen, we need to have independent forces that can stand up to both Barisan and Pakatan.

1 comment:

Martian said...

I believe, for that, we need politicians that work for the people rather than for their bank accounts regardless of the party.

To answer...

'What mechanisms are there to ensure that Pakatan does not take the same road as Barisan Nasional, or becomes worse, if they are in power? '

...no matter which party takes over, the doubt still remains.

However, at this point, any party besides BN will suffice.. :P