Hopping games = government's fall

The political imbroglio that broke out in Perak makes me feel disappointed upon our local politics. The resignation of DAP Perak State Assembly Deputy Speaker Hee Yit Foong has destabilized the PR(Pakatan Rakyat) led government, culminates in the decree of Sultan of Perak for the Menteri Besar and its EXCO members to resign with immediate effect. Without a doubt, Hee has made a mockery of the people’s verdict by quitting and causing the fall of the Perak state government. Remember, this is not just one seat but one state government.

It is utmost important to set up an anti-hopping law, for a government formed through defection is not a strong government and it does not receive the mandate from the people through a proper democratic way. I feel that in Malaysia, MPs and state assemblymen are voted based mainly on the party to which they belong and less so on their individual qualities and merits. Therefore crossing over to another party after being elected is not right and morally wrong. It not only amounts to betraying the voters who have elected them but goes to show a lack of integrity and credibility on the part of the defector. It would only be right for them to return to their constituents to seek a fresh mandate to continue representing them if they want to defect to another part even if their intentions are sincere.

Frankly speaking, the intention to set up an anti-hopping law may prevent what might be seen as unprincipled defections in short term, but the long term effects could be more damaging than the benefits. It is due to the fact that freedom of association is a constitutional right. One ideal solution for such political setback is to have principled politicians. That is a situation that will take years of education and reform to cultivate. The profession of politician must first be seen as a desirable one for principled young Malaysians to aspire to, and they must be taught the importance of check and balance institutions if they are to respect their boundaries and honour their oaths as legislators-oath in which they promise to serve their apolitical head of state and his people, and emphatically not a political party.

I think BN will successfully take over the state government form PR for this time, maybe once for all. Hopefully it would not be the last BN-led government in Perak as by the time when the next general election comes, people will definitely reject the government with vehemence.