The month of September has given birth to two momentous dates – first “916” and then “926”.
“916” signifies political “sky-change”. Its importance does not lie in whether the change in federal power takes place on Sept. 16 but in the sea-change in the political mindset, attitudes and expectations of Malaysians about power change.
Six months ago, the Barisan Nasional was so monolithic and impregnable that it was unthinkable and impossible to envisage that it could be toppled from the federal government level.
In the past six months however, the dream and possibility of change of federal power have spread like a prarie fire among Malaysians that it is no exaggeration to say that today the overwhelmingly majority of Malaysians believe that change of federal power is possible while a clear majority would want such a change to take effect immediately.
This is what is most important about the “916” magic – not whether the “skychange” took place on September 16, 2008 (which it did not) but that the political moment in Malaysia has arrived when change of federal power is no more an impossible dream but has become a practical possibility and it is only a matter of time when this “skychange” transforms the political landscape in the country.
When the “916 skychange” takes place remains a very immediate political agenda in Malaysia – whether 1016, 1116, 1216 or in an early 13th general election.
“926” is another momentous date, for a coup d’etat was staged on September 26 in the Umno Supreme Council emergency meeting where Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi was given the ultimatum to abandon his mid-June 2010 power-transition plan and to agree to relinquish his posts as Umno President and Prime Minister in March next year or he would be packed off from the Putrajaya corridors of power summarily and ignominiously.
Abdullah appears to have three options before him:-
Firstly, before the October 9 deadline when Umno divisions begin their month-long process to submit nominations for the various Umno party elections to declare his intention to contest for the post of Umno President so as retain the initiative in his hands as to his own timeline to effect the power transition.
Would Abdullah dare to fight for his political life when his first hurdle is to prove that he is capable of winning 58 or one-third of the Umno division nominations for the post of Umno President.
This is not going to be an easy accomplishment for Abdullah and he must be prepared to suffer the ignominy of the first incumbent Prime Minister and Umno President who could not secure adequate nominations to contest for the post of Umno President and the disgrace of being stripped of the premiership.
Secondly, to bow to the pressures of the “926” Umno Supreme Council meeting and announce that he would not contest for the Umno President’s post, becoming a lame-duck Prime Minister for the next six months until March 2009 – after a completely lacklustre premiership for five years!
Thirdly, to announce his retirement as Prime Minister by Oct. 9.
There are two further options open to Abdullah:
• Advise the Yang di Pertuan Agong for a dissolution of Parliament for the holding of fresh general election to end the seven-month political uncertainty in the country in the past seven months since the 12th general election on March 8, so as to give the Malaysian electorate an opportunity to decide whether they want a continuation of the Barisan Nasional government or a new Pakatan Rakyat federal government; or
• Co-operate with Pakatan Rakyat to bring about a change of federal government so that the country can end seven months of drift and lack of direction, which have compounded the multiple crisis of confidence afflicting the country.
Abdullah has less than 12 days to mull over the options available to him. It is important that his decision must hinge on the primary consideration of what is in the best interest for the nation and Malaysians at this hour of national crisis and need rather than on what would be in his own best interest and that of his family.
(Speech at the Perak DAP 5,000-People Solidarity Dinner in Ipoh on Saturday, 27th September 2008 at 9 pm)
#1 by shortie kiasu on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 12:32 pm
It is strange and weird that the highest position of the land, the post of prime minister has now been ‘horse-traded’ openly between thw two of them.
What has happened to the country that we have gone so low in our self esteem? There is no dignity any more to talk about.
The economy is in tatter, and will be aggravated by the US and global financial crisis now brewing.
We were told many a time that we are sound fundamentally and no worry of crisis setting its foot on our shore, but where the crisis struck, they are of even more strong economic fundamentals.
What are brewing underneath cannot be seen or anticipated. Whenit strikes, it damages totally.
The poor and the men in the street bear the brunt and suffer not the political elites. They are all well off and well cushioned.
#2 by biggun on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 12:34 pm
AAB will not do anything for the Malaysian, he will act like what well be, let it be, whoever take over his place is none of his concerned, he only care for himself and his family, after all Malaysia is only a transition place for him, he is waiting to harvest APPLES during the summer time in AUSTRALIA, Sayonara, Malaysia after this RAYA, and nest, see you in my ORCHARD together with my grandchildren.
#3 by nyghtsky on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 12:50 pm
YB Kit,
I’d kind of like the last option you’d put forth, i.e. Co-operate with Pakatan Rakyat to bring about a change of federal government, to the alternative of Paklaaaaa stepping down for the Najisss guy to take over the reign.
Paklaaaaa is pretty harmless by comparison!
#4 by chinymin on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 1:02 pm
“Secondly, to bow to the pressures of the “926” Umno Supreme Council meeting and announce that he would not contest for the Umno President’s post, becoming a lame-duck Prime Minister for the next six months until March 2009 – after a completely lacklustre premiership for five years!”
==================================================
My simple analysis deduced that AAB will assume the second option and that his last six months will be spent “on what would be in his own best interest and that of his family rather than “on the primary consideration of what is in the best interest for the nation and Malaysians at this hour of national crisis and need”. Too bad. God please save our nation.
Cheers!!
#5 by pulau_sibu on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 1:05 pm
Abdullah has done nothing for the past five years. If he can, just one thing would be enough for him to be a great man. Be Gorbachov by handing over the power to Anwar. He will be remembered in the history.
He must be very disappointed with these UMNO jerks and he has to stab back. He can do so by giving away power and don’t let the jerks ruin the country. I think this way of acting is important for the country. He should think above himself and UMNO, and think about the country and its people.
#6 by KennyGan on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 1:16 pm
The people’s desire for change is so great that it cannot be contained or brushed aside. If Najib takes over and continue business as usual, he will be remembered as the PM who lost the Federal govt to the opposition.
#7 by k1980 on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 1:18 pm
Yet another option: Form a new party “Parti Hadhari” with just 2 MPs– himself and his son in law
#8 by pulau_sibu on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 1:21 pm
Abdullah has done nothing for the past five years. If he can, just one thing would be enough for him to be a great man. Be Gorbachov by handing over the power to Pakatan Rakyat. He will be remembered in the history.
#9 by pulau_sibu on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 1:27 pm
But Khairy has been rather quiet. Is he telling what Abdullah wanted to say?
“Postponement can complicate campaign, says Khairy”
#10 by harrisonbinhansome on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 1:27 pm
One can always remember President B.J. Habibie of Indonesia. He did the greatest honor for the East Timorese by given them the mandate by election to choose whether to stay (illegally) annexed by Indonesia which he clearly knew that the suppressed East Timorese wanted Independence from Indonesia. And today, East Timor( Timor Leste) is a (free)country.
Always in my mind is AAB whom is an inversion of Dr. Mahathir Mohamad bestiality. He pledges reform such as the IPCMC (which is in latency), a failed Judiciary reform (this was verified by the words of Zaid Ibrahim) and others which were sabotaged by the UMNO warlords.
To have a total independent ACA, (apolitical)Police with an effective IPCMC, and an Independent Judiciary, the BN who “dirt” their hands in all 3 of the aforesaid in assuming favours all this while
would fill the jails and lock-ups nationwide so to presume them “shooting their own foot” is a anti-thesis.
During this tacit short-lived time-frame, that is if AAB bows to the UMNO warlords by assuming powers till March 2009, AAB will always be remembered as a PM who walks onto the office like a tiger (when he promised to eradicate corruption) and walks out of the office like a lamb (when all his attempt to “clean” the “dirt” of Mahathir’s misrule are only rhetorics).
If I am AAB, surely I will be assisting Pakatan Rakyat in advising the Agong for Her Majesty’s imprimatur for an early GE, only then AAB will be remembered by history for his last opportunity as pre-eminent. :)
#11 by ctc537 on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 1:29 pm
In consideration of the interests of Malaysians, AAB could spring a surprise. Age is catching up with him and he wants Malaysians to remember him like what they do Tunku Abdul Rahman. Pak Lah should be recognised as Father of Democracy as someone suggested this the other day. He is the first PM who allows Malaysians freedom of speech. Thank you Pak Lah.
#12 by Mr Smith on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 1:31 pm
Almost 90% of the population has no say in the appointment of the PM. As though the country does not belong them but to a select few in the UMNO supreme council which treats the PM’s post as its birth right.
#13 by Jong on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 1:39 pm
Pathetic…sigh, what a missed opportunity many would not dare to dream – Prime Minister of Malaysia!
Even in his early days when he first took office, that it was a great mistake was to keep those dickheads from Mahathir’s cabinet but he chose to ignore the rakyat. Serves him right, now he’s being openly traded in disgrace!
#14 by hiro on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 1:45 pm
AAB may want to do something for Malaysia, but UMNO will not allow it. The last two options would be options that any statesman worth his salt would do, but not AAB nor anyone else in UMNO or BN – no one will willingly cede power especially when the institutions of governance and the Constitutional lacuna are all open to manipulation.
#15 by sotong on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 1:54 pm
There is no quick fix from decades of bad leadership and gross mismanagement of our country.
We could thank our so called ” leaders ” for the mess they created….the ordinary people will be made to pick up the pieces.
#16 by sotong on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 2:03 pm
In the first 2 decades after Independent, a lot of effort were put in by all leaders to create a united nation.
In the last 3 decades, with narrow, short sighted and damaging politics of race and religion had totally destroyed all efforts to create a united nation.
We are now back to square one with bigger challenges and threats facing the country as a result of divisive and damaging politics and globalisation and competition.
#17 by KennyGan on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 2:05 pm
Will AAB go with a bang or a whimper? Will he go out in a blaze of glory or slink off into the sunset?
In his final months as PM, AAB has the power to chart the future course of Malaysia and be remembered as Bapa Democracy rather than Bapa Mertua Khairy.
#18 by Jong on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 2:07 pm
The trouble is he has not been trying – not jantan enough to try and that’s pathetic.
As PM and most powerful CEO in the country, how to believe he has not been able to get things done? He is just too blur, no initiative and left everything to his advisors and/or sil, and they just fixed him for their own selfish gains!
#19 by Swordsman on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 2:10 pm
In reality there are only 2 Options or Strategic Moves available to Pak Lah:
1. To exit the PM position.
2. To hang onto the PM position.
Under 1, he can consider these tactical moves:
a. Hand over the PMship to Najib as per the UMNO transition plan, and in return be given an exit eulogy by the UMNO Assembly embellishing the “greatness” and “magnanimity” of Pak Lah. May be he would be given the title “Bapa Magnanimity”.
b. Advise DYMM Agong to dissolve Parliament and return the right to the Rakyat to decide on who the next PM should be. This would be in line with accepted democratic principles.
c. Allow Pakatan to table a vote of No Confidence in Parliament to assess whether BN still has the majority support, and to end Anwar’s gambit once and for all, one way or the other. If Pakatan wins, work out a smooth transition in the change of Govt.
Honestly, I don’t see Pak Lah being bold enough to consider b and c as this would land him being branded as a traitor to UMNO.
Under 2 Hanging onto the PM post, Pak Lah can consider these tactical moves:
a. To remain PM by hanging on as President of UMNO. He can extinguish dissent among UMNO Supreme Council Members by throwing the “files” at each of them. These “skeleton” files are the most potent political and criminally-damaging weapons against the corrupt UMNO politicians. If Mahathir had been the PM today, he would have no hesitation in putting the UMNO Supreme Council Members to share “room” with RPK in Kamunting. As the PM he can replace the entire Cabinet, and allow policy decisions to be made by the Cabinet instead by the UMNO SC.
b. To be the PM for all Malaysians. Get direct support from the Rakyat by doing the right things for the well-being of the Rakyat.
(I have listed the “right things” in the earlier blog on this website)
c Do a deal with Pakatan. Form a “unity” cabinet by removing unpopular and tainted UMNO politicians from the cabinet and appoint Pakatan MPs to replace them. The new cabinet shall then revise the race-based policies of BN and replace them with policies based on the Rakyat’s aspirations. Allow Pak Lah to stay on until end 2009 after the new policies have been entrenched in the civil service.
Pak Lah may not be a competent leader but there is no need to pour scorn on him. By disgracing him, we end up disgracing ourselves because we Malaysians collectively put him on the high pedestal.
#20 by Jong on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 2:19 pm
“Pak Lah may not be a competent leader but there is no need to pour scorn on him. By disgracing him, we end up disgracing ourselves because we Malaysians collectively put him on the high pedestal.”
Swordman,
I disagree with what you said. We did not collectively put him there. It was that Mamakfler. The rakyat had no say in choice of our Prime Minister and I think this is wrong, we must change that. It must not be the perogative of the PM to choose his successor. See what we have the past 5 years? – a very incompetent prime minister just because of that Mamakfler’s selfish reasons. He had hoped a dimwit would eventually crawl back to him for his “advice” and also for the world to judge, no one would be as good as him.
#21 by Jong on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 2:25 pm
It is not in our constitution for the Prime Minister to have the perogative of selecting his successor.
Umno just allowed the dictator have his way – that Mamakfler to screw it all up.
#22 by pulau_sibu on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 2:27 pm
I have a wild guess that Agong probably indicated that he did not want to interfere at this stage and ask Pakatan to wait for the parliament. That is why from sending a letter asking for meeting (indicated by PAS) to a letter reporting about the progress (indicated by Anwar).
The problem here is about the sodomy trial. The local court has given Anwar two chances, but why not dismissing it? If Anwar cannot show that he is in control of the government next month, the BN controlled court may create problem on Anwar, following the request to transfer the case to the high court. The rest of his political fate may again become unclear.
But I just hope Anwar is smart enough to get through all these conspiracies. We are curious in knowing what went wrong about the power transfer until BN has overstayed for 12 days now.
Don’t wait for the internal fight of Ummo so that Pakatan Rakyat will become the hunter to pick up the rabbit. This is not going to happen.
Why no talks about Bala now? Are we so easy to forget about Bala and the Mongolian lady?
#23 by selvarajasomiah on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 2:32 pm
Or Pak Lah would just do to Najib what Mahathir did to Anwar by fixing Anwar on the trumped-up sodomy and sexual charges to stay on longer as PM. I’m sure Pak Lah too has learn much tricks and the art of survival from Mahathir his Mahaguru. Pak Lah will try to do anything and everything to continue to be the PM till 2010, so that Khairy his son-in-law can be saved.
I can see Pak Lah and his boys are going to strike hard and assault with ballistic missiles and smart bombs against Najib in the next few days before the October dateline. It is going to be very ruthless and bloody this coming few days. Pak Lah and his boys will release all the information about the sex scandals, corruption, murder case, Rosmah, etc about Najib and that will probably end Najib’s political career.
This is the only way Pak Lah can stay on as PM till 2010.
Watch out for events unfolding soon.
#24 by Saint on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 2:33 pm
Saudara Lim,
For once I see that you have lost your luster of political analysis.
The PM can solve this problem very easily “if only he had the guts”
In12 days, just call for a No Confidence Vote in the parliament.
What will the BN parties do – support and retain the government
or vote against it and loose the government. The PM can put the whole of BN in a “catch 21” position.
This is the best strategy the PM should do to diffuse the present problem and rule till the next elections. Removing “stab backers” will need guts – may be something the PM does not have.
#25 by gofortruth on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 2:49 pm
Mahathir planted the racist tree (to divide & rule) for 22 years and made Malaysia belongs to 2 persons only – the PM & the DPM.
So naturally we get to see history repeating itself, PM fighting DPM shows. Each tilme it happens, the rakyat suffer!
#26 by pulau_sibu on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 2:53 pm
Abdullah is definitely the person to blame for the worst performance of BN, but it was not him alone that killed BN. These Ummo guys started all the racist remarks and actions, and these useless MCA, Gerakan, SUPP, MIC who has no guts to speak out. N was the person who led BN to go and contest Anwar that ended up with a miserable defeat. The use of ISA and remarks by Syed Hamid,….. Most of the people’s dissatisfaction was an accumulation of 50 years frustration. You cannot blame the sleepy Abdullah as the sole person to take the responsibility. Even if Abdullah quit, the problems will not be solved. We need to have a change in the government in order to solve the problem. Pak Lah needs to be a boleh Gorbachov
#27 by bclee on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 3:03 pm
Ya where this Bala disappear like this, i wonder what happen with the Mongolian lady case?
when is the justment day for atantuya?
a total change need to happen any time from now for our belove country. no a transition of power.PR need to take over the current government to avoid more hindren for the country growth.
please release RPK and abolish ISA one and for all.
#28 by hadi on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 3:26 pm
Since he was played out by people around him which is typical of UMNO, Pak LAH should go for the last option as mention by YB Kit. Just hand over to Pakatan Rakyat and that will be lesson learned for UMNO, not to be hypocrite and never betray your friend and so——….. wither UMNO.Long Live Pakatan Rakyat.
#29 by bclee on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 3:28 pm
read the below news paper cutting form utusan Malaysia a real racist instigation case by Awang Selamat, please Home minister put him in ISA Now if u are truely fair and right thinking Home minister.
http://www.bmahendran.com/?p=141#comments
please free RPK and all under ISA
#30 by FY Lim on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 3:32 pm
YB Kit,
To divert a bit , I would like to know that in the spirit of Hari Raya, can we know where are the PR’s open houses and the date as we could not get it from the dailies nowadays as they may not like to publish it.
In particular , the venue and date for :
1. DSAI’s Open house
2. YAB Menteri Besar Selangor Open house
3. YAB Chief Minister of Penang Open house
4. YAB MB Perak Open House
5. YAB MB Kedah Open House
6. YAB MB Kelantan Open House
7. Any other MP’s and ADUN’s Open houses
This is a good time for members of the public to interact and share in the goodwill of Hari Raya.
Perhaps, as a start DAP can publish this in your website.
Cheers.
#31 by 5titlah on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 3:59 pm
I think they have a pack..!
These in-laws are always discussing things in the home that no one knows. Even the MPs.
Ok let’s do this…
Father-in-law say something & son-in-law say something else so that the Malaysian goons will not think that we are hand in hand for whatever downfall that’s gonna happen…!
Nooo….. hard feelings yah !
Now they have shifted the UMNO thingy to March 2009. By right can they do that…???
They are doing all these in their OWN interest. Sooo…. selfish !
Trying to save themselves first.
Yup… Tengku Razaleigh is right…! Stick to Dec 2008 !
How long more are we Malaysians gonna suffer lah…?
As a DPM he can’t perform…
What makes you all think he will perform when he’s PM…???
Please see to our economy first…!
#32 by AsalUsuLMalaysia on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 4:09 pm
Like ancient SAMURAI Warriors, their spirits and legacy that continues to effect the lives of people in modern Japan.
Honor was very important to the samurai’s way of life. Daimyo who serve the country federal lord Shogun has to protect his dignity else the army would lost honour and loyalty. The whole system and its empire would falls collapse.
I suggest badawi go for the 4th option, seek for the federal lord Shogun(Agong) to dispatch this evil regime and give way for new Malaysia in honourable fight(fresh general election).
#33 by Damocles on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 4:24 pm
The rakyat had no say in choice of our Prime Minister and I think this is wrong, we must change that. – Jong
You’re right.
I think that when PR takes over the government, it should put in place a system whereby the PM of the country will be chosen by the elected representatives of all political parties instead of only UMNO.
#34 by lofuji on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 4:24 pm
Regarding the Utusan Malaysia article by Awang who?BCLee shud jus 4get about the botak syed,so called home minister,to take action.He will take action against the wrong people and all the innocent ones will end up in kamunting.
Aisay,wonder he got the law degree from-zimbabwe? Arrest Teresa under ISA for her protection? Niamah!No wonder TDM says we got half-pas-6 ministers!
#35 by boh-liao on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 4:26 pm
Cukup lah, Umno and AAB! Time to admit failures and give others a chance to govern the nation.
Race, race – a tale of two nations.
After 51/45 years of existence, Malaysia is still divided over the issue of race. And recently an MP’s house was attacked with molotov cocktails – an irresponsible and despicable politically-motivated racial-hatred act.
After 43 years of existence, Singapore is basking in the glory of the highly praised first ever night race of F1!
#36 by rider on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 4:28 pm
True he was the mamakfler’s choice but we, the rakyat endorsed him in 2004, what swordsman said is true, but would AAB have the guts and gumption to do Swordsman’s no:2..?, we hope.
#37 by chewek68 on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 4:29 pm
all the rhetorics by Umno-Bn government all these years prove hollow. But what they have instead to continue to hold on to the power are their strong political will and domination, not to mention their near total control of civil service including the police force, close alliance with the royals and significant influence over the judiciary.
I may be wrong, but I seriously doubt that PR in the current form, can pose significant challenge to the federal leadership of Umno-Bn, more so when the majority of the malay and non-malay community are stiil not commited and united to make a strong stand and demand for good governance as the essential criteria for leadership.Not when a significant large number of malay community stiil subscribe to the idea of ‘ketuanan malayu” and /or islamic orientated leadership; not when a large segmnet of non-malay community stiil think or made to think that their top priority in malaysia is just to advance or maintain their economic status and nothing else really matters.
#38 by Jeffrey on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 4:50 pm
There are two strategic factors influencing the options : first, whether Anwar has the “numbers” and second, which option promotes best Pak Lah’s self interest and political survival best. [Resigning the “samurai” way in honour like Japanese premiers Shinzo Abe and Yasuo Fukuda did is out because that is not Malaysian tradition (despite something akin to that when Chuah Soi Lek resigned). It appears our tradition to cling on to power until the inevitable eleventh hour when holding on is untenable].
On the first factor, if Anwar really has the “numbers” to pass the motion of no confidence, then whatever options Pak Lah chooses is academic : he and cabinet would have to resign consequent to a motion of no confidence passed.
This is of course assuming that Pak Lah has not the gumption to impose emergency rule. [I discount the option of arresting Anwar under ISA because even with such an arrest, it will not stop Anwar’s “numbers” of defectors – if they are steadfast – to help PR move a motion of no confidence successfully in parliament against the PM/cabinet (after Anwar’s arrest)].
The wonderful advantage of an emergency invoked using as an excuse the economic uncertainty created by the Opposition is that it will enable Pak Lah to rule by military decree killing two birds with one stone of silencing Oposition outside UMNO as well as simultaneously his detractors and critics within as well!
The second strategic factor – self interest – comes to play in the case of (a) Anwar not having the “numbers” he claims and (b) Pak Lah not inclined to resort to such a drastic and bold measure of imposing emergency rule.
#39 by alikim on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 4:53 pm
12 days for AAB to ponder and choose between ” providing an opportunity for the country to be reformed under Pakatan Rakyat” and be Known as Bapa Democrasi OR “just being pressured out and be forgotten in a very short time”.
#40 by Jeffrey on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 4:53 pm
Going foward from the earlier posting in relation to the the second strategic factor.
When canvassing and evaluating the various options, the preferred option would be the first – to contest challenges in UMNO presidential election in March next year provided feed back from the ground evinces that the PM is capable of securing at least 58 or one-third of the Umno division nominations for the post of Umno President.
If the feed-back evinces that he has no hope at all of securing at least 58 nominations for the President’s post, then his next course would depend on how he evaluates his deputy’s role in relation to his ouster.
If he absolves his deputy or overlooks it in exchange for some understanding of how his legacy is to be treated by the next administration, then he may just decine contest and resign whether on 9th Oct or in March handing the post to the number two.
However if he has any real grievances against the number 2 and those down the line acting in concert to engineer his earlier exit, then the 4th option of tendering his resignation and that of the cabinet’s to pave the way for dissolution of parliament and fresh election becomes a factor for serious consideration.
The other option of co-operating with Anwar and Pakatan Rakyat to bring about a change of federal government is highly unlikely as he will be seen as a traitor to the Party to which he has belonged to all his political life just for a position to play second fiddle to Anwar! There is no honourable exit in such an option.
The fourth option is however different – there is no betrayal of UMNO in exchange for second fiddle position and also no assurance that if election were to culminate, Pakatan Rakyat will definitely win and Barisan Nasional definitely lose. The PM still has a fighting chance, no matter many expect the PR to stomp to victory in the momentum of 8th March & 26th August Permatang Pauh by election.
It is a chance that may well worth risking : if the BN wins he would have shut up Anwar once and for all and give the signal to all doubting Toms within UMNO that his continued premiership will help Opposition to topple the government. Not to mention that a general election may also help to weed out some of the present power brokers/warlords showing their daggers to him. Indeed the very thought that the Premier might use this 4th option may induce these power brokers/warlords to recoil and sheathe back their daggers and keris.
From self interest stand point, the 4th option is something definitely contemplatible by him.
A risk at the election is definitely a better option than just giving up the fight and retiring under such ignominous circumstances, asuming one places political survival as first consideration!
Even if the risks taken in an election leads to BN’s defeat, he would have the consolation price of winning the residual gratitude of many amongst the rakyat impatient and clamouring for change.
#41 by HJ Angus on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 5:09 pm
Some very good advice for the PM to consider but in my opinion, the nuclear meltdown of his political career has started and no one put in the spare cooling water pumps.
#42 by yhsiew on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 5:18 pm
I am sure PL must have ensured that his personal agenda (including contract awards to his son and son-in-law) is fully accomplished or at least 90% accomplished before he agreed to the March 2009 transition deadline. So, in the end it really doesn’t matter which option he chooses or is forced onto him.
By March 2009, PL would “have climbed up the river bank” (popular Chinese saying which means “have gathered enough wealth – need not struggle in the water anymore”). Frankly, I don’t see how PL can be frustrated with the options given to him.
#43 by Jeffrey on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 5:19 pm
Looking beyond the political convulsions of the present to the broader spaces of country’s political future, it appears fraught with political uncertainty and instability, a very bad thing, when the financial tempest brewing in the developed world is yet to hit us hard, which is difficult to weather if there is no certainty and strong political leadership here.
Look at the scenarios:
1. If Pak Lah contests, Najib might break and combine with Muhyiddin to fight him. Even if Najib does not break rank, Muhyiddin and Ku Li would fight the duo (Pak Lah & Najib).
2. If Pak Lah retires, and Najib takes over, Najib may not take Muhyiddin as deputy, so the latter would still fight him, and if he takes Muhyiddin as no. 2, it will not stop Ku Li combining with another to contest against Najib and Muhyiddin .
3. Whatever the permutations of 1 or 2 above, it will not stop Anwar from poaching numbers to destabilise the BN especially at this time when UMNO is torn in factionalism …and this means that the top leadership of UMNO may have to resort to drastic even draconian means to neutralise the Anwar’s threat.
4. And even if Anwar/Pakatan wins, it will not stop the king maker/power broker – PAS – at the right time to depose Anwar as PM if he does not play ball to put in place their agenda to establish the theocratic state; and if PAS is unable to prevail over Anwar regarding their theocratic demands, they can also swing and cross over to the BN to move a motion of no confidence against the Pakatan Rakyat’s federal government to reinstate BN to power with PAS at its wings.
Anyway it goes, Malaysians are unlikely to enjoy political stability for the next few years. In view of the looming economic crisis, we’re likely in for a long and hard ride.
#44 by HJ Angus on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 5:29 pm
looking at the negative FDIs it appears that more Malaysian companies are going overseas – primarily not for actual investments but more to move funds offshore.
#45 by just a moment on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 6:20 pm
The only and best option is PKR takes over – period.
More than 20 Federal Territory Gerakan members have defected to Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) with “more expected in the coming weeks.”
Its time PKR should take centre stage and let them be the audience. Enough of idiotic musical chairs and shadows play for entertaintment. The show is over. If molotov cocktail can be exhibited, next you’ll see spears and tribes emerging. Its getting from bad to worst. Its more of the old or entirely new. I like the idea Bdowi joining PKR as well. Why not?
#46 by OrangRojak on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 6:39 pm
“The rakyat had no say in choice of our Prime Minister”
Does any rakyat, anywhere in the world, have this choice? As I understand it, choosing a prime minister in-between elections is the prerogative of the ‘ruling party’ in any country it happens in. How could it be otherwise? Like any other decision made while they have your mandate, it’s theirs to make.
What Swordsman says above:
“we Malaysians collectively put him on the high pedestal”
is essentially true. Your government is a result of what you all do with your democratic power, whether you voted for his party or not. If you were one of the democratic majority that voted for his party, you personally put him there. If you didn’t vote at all, you were in tacit agreement with the outcome. Not voting is not a protest – it’s an abdication of responsibility. You cannot subsequently complain about the majority vote – you helped it.
Even voting against is only trivially exercising your democratic responsibility. There is far more to democracy than voting. If you don’t like the outcome of previous elections in which you were eligible to take part, you have to ask yourselves “what did I do to prevent that happening?”. Did you campaign? Distribute leaflets? Try to persuade your habitually-BN-voting neighbours and workmates? Contribute (cash, premises etc) to a campaign?
It’s simply not enough to just write 30 angry words on a blog from time to time. If you didn’t give your last ringgit and drop of sweat to an alternative candidate at previous elections, BN is the result you asked for.
Swordsman is absolutely right. When you try to put the dunce cap on your PM, the rest of the world will be hearing “we elected an idiot!”, which is perhaps not the message you want to send.
#47 by KennyGan on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 6:40 pm
The worst option for AAB is Option 2 whereby he announces he won’t contest but expect to stay on till march ’09. Do you think he’ll be left in peace till 03 ’09? Mahathir will fire another broadside demanding that he resign immediately and Muhyddin will take the cue and play it back like a tape recorder.
Option 3 is to admit defeat and slink off into the sunset. I think AAB will not take this option bearing in mind the family business to protect and his SIL to promote.
If AAB chooses Option 1 (to contest) he would at least be able to stay until the Umno elections in March. Warlords demanding his resignation will have to quiet down as they will have nothing more to say. If he cannot get enough nominations, that’s his problem, not theirs. There’s also a possibility that he may get enough nominations using the power of incumbency.
Options 3 and 4 are farfetched. Badawi is not that kind of person.
Hence, I predict he will choose Option 1.
#48 by KennyGan on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 6:42 pm
Correction, Options 4 and 5 are farfetched. Badawi is not that kind of person.
#49 by anak msia on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 6:54 pm
More than 300 Federal Territory Gerakan members have defected to Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) with “more expected in the coming weeks.”
Former Federal Territory Gerakan information bureau chief Gan Kok Keng said there would be at least 300 members from four divisions joining the opposition party soon.
The divisions involved are the Setiawangsa, Wangsa Maju, Bukit Bintang and Kepong divisions.
#50 by bclee on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 7:12 pm
another good example of Bee N racist practice in governing:
read arctical on http://the-malaysian.blogspot.com/
Illegals Gain Citizenship; Sabahans Lose Theirs’
shame of u Bee N.
#51 by kerajaan.rakyat on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 7:29 pm
Dear YB Lim,
My thumb up,
My hat off for YB Teresa Kok,
She’s my YB.
Why? Read here
http://kerajaanrakyat.com/?p=1373
Regards,
#52 by AsalUsuLMalaysia on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 7:31 pm
@Jeffrey…
did you realised a visible warlord among all?… His the sore winner above all but he remains silence and humble as possible?
the aka “Datuk Wira Hj. Mohd Ali bin Mohd Rustam” self-added “Wira” OMG!!1! lol~
http://www.melaka.gov.my/v1/minister.php?PHPSESSID=2bf7a391da76367c31871078fa358e36
^ SUPer TYCOoon!
#53 by AsalUsuLMalaysia on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 7:34 pm
This fella if ACA come check, hmm 10years of filling also cannot finish i tell u…
#54 by richmom on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 8:23 pm
Another kiasu warlord ABU HASAN put up his face all over the town and along the roads of port dickson.Its terrifying(not pleasing and handsome enough)..wanted to promote himself or tourism?But, it is PR MP Dato Kamal that helps to put the bus after years of absence on the roads so that the public can visit the beaches.
#55 by Johnny Cheah on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 9:47 pm
SURPRISE SURPRISE! you guys are going to be in for a big SURPRISE.. Yep, he’s called sleepy head and whatever is connected to sleeping. If you look at pictures of him in the newspaper and on tv, I bet you he is today very much awake. You can bet your last Ringgit he is planning something and you can be sure he have something up his sleeve. Just imagine, a person holding the highest post in the country going to give up just like that. Can you imagine the life of a PM! Bodyguards all over him. Police outriders escort wherever he goes. Flying 1st. class on commercial jets on national business or his new Airbus 219. Staying in suites or presidential suites when travelling out of the country. And MANY MANY MORE! You think he wants to give up the damn good life. Think again Malaysians. Be prepared, prepare for a BIG SURPRISE!
#56 by KennyGan on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 10:23 pm
Johnny, do you know something we don’t or are you like me, postulating that he will choose Option 1 ( to contest?)
#57 by Only Peace on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 10:25 pm
I believe Change is inevitable with the current Government handling simplest issues.
Even they can’t manage small fry issues, how do we expect them to confront biggies?
They are like useless buggers to me. Look at how our Home Minister talk. I think a Form 5 student can be a better debater than him.
If the present Government can’t find anyone more suitable to be in his Cabinet, I really doubt the efficiency of the present Cabinet!
#58 by alancheah on Sunday, 28 September 2008 - 11:56 pm
Let’s hope for the best that the “Sky Change”
will happen eventually!!!
#59 by AsalUsuLMalaysia on Monday, 29 September 2008 - 2:03 am
Hey did anyone notice this?
“Gerakan pertimbang keluar BN”
Sep 28, 08 10:19pm
http://www.malaysiakini.com/news/90523
Wooo.Ot?
Just curious, why now not earlier or immediate effect?!
Why didn’t call for Gerakan Supreme Council meeting to make a clear views from the gerakan silence majority. If anyone of you could or even can proves yourself worthy like P. Patto you do it now for the sake of the Nation.
#60 by AsalUsuLMalaysia on Monday, 29 September 2008 - 2:10 am
omg what am i saying here, tired sry, i mean…
Why didn’t KTK call for Gerakan Supreme Council Meeting to see the silnce majority views. “If you wants to proves yourself worthy like P. Patto, you do it now for the sake of the Nation.”
#61 by drago2008 on Monday, 29 September 2008 - 5:39 am
Change is the way forward for this country. The cracks are showing in BN and Umno. When there are cracks, varmints will come out of the woodworks to create trouble with racist comments, dirty tricks and recently, the molotov cocktail incident. Any right thinking citizen will not condone all this.
#62 by Jeffrey on Monday, 29 September 2008 - 7:43 am
Why is Anwar so quiet? What part is he playing in relation to any one of these options that PM Abdullah has?
Baradan Kuppusamy of The MalaysianInsider discusses here how Abdullah’s departure spells troubles forAnwar :
http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/index.php/malaysia/9720-pak-lahs-departure-may-spell-trouble-for-anwar-
#63 by Jeffrey on Monday, 29 September 2008 - 8:01 am
In drift of what Baradan Kuppusamy said, the question is why should Pakatan Rakyat rely on Premier Abdullah’s travails and electing 4th or 5th options to hand govt over to PR on the plate – if Anwar had the credbility and not made false claims? Why rely on the other side to make things easy for you if you have the substanceto do it yourself?
This is what Baradan Kuppusamy said in relation to Anwar (I quote):-
///Whether he has the numbers or not however will be tested when Parliament reconvenes on Oct 13 to debate and approve the 2009 budget.
If he has the numbers as he claims to have he can easily kill the budget and demonstrate to the world that he really has majority support in the 222-seat parliament.
The budget of 24 ministries have to be debated and approved and if he can kill any one of the ministries’ budgets, that would be a successful vote of no-confidence against Abdullah and the BN government.
“He has 24 chances to do it,” said Dewan Rakyat deputy Speaker Datuk Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar in Kuching on Saturday virtually throwing the gauntlet to Anwar.///
Won’t we not know soon whether he has the ‘numbers’ or just bull shitting?
After all there is every cause for him to act on Oct 13 if he has the numbers considering the PM next after Abdullah will be not so “kind” to him and unless he achieves what he promises, the only staring at him in near future is the Sodomy II charges while RPK languishes longer under ISA.
#64 by Fair Play on Monday, 29 September 2008 - 8:18 am
I do not think it is fair to say PM has done nothing for Malaysians .Perhaps we were expecting too much too fast forgetting that he does not rule with an iron hand . ( We did not vote for a dictator, did we ? ) He has to continually face a cabinet that resists change- why change the good life ? He has to face those who believe they were born to be lords over the people forever . The people exist only to vote them into power and then they cease to exist .
We must at least remember and be grateful that PM has tried to be more open and fair to all Malaysians . If he had tried harder he might have been ousted before this dawn and we would not have PR in five states and a stronger opposition in Parliament. He has definitely brought more democracy to Malaysia and could be conferred the title of Father of Democracy.
Remember the see-through boxes used in the last election for the first time ? We hope they would continue to be used in future elections to give us some assurance of transparency and fairness .
People geneally feel more freedom now and are more ready to give their views in the press . We might begin to miss Pak Lah the moment he steps down .
#65 by Bigjoe on Monday, 29 September 2008 - 8:22 am
Its obviously Sdr. Lim’s right and duty to point out the ideal choices to be made. But Malaysians are realist, incredibly passive against the abuse of power. Its just Malaysians are intolerant of idiotic abuse. For the PM to open up the road to govt may be ideal but not to open up is NOT idiotic. Its just the kind of things that is unlikely to happen.
This PM is finished, why harp on it? Why not jump to the next more likely possibility – that the worst of the problems of UMNO/BN is not over – the dangers of the Najib-Muhiyiddin partnership which will not lead to a long term solution to this country. Lets point out how they are inevitably going to fight it out and further ruin this country in their own selfish interest.
#66 by Jeffrey on Monday, 29 September 2008 - 8:39 am
I can agree to some extent what Fair Play posted but I think the title of “Father of Democracy” is underdeserved being otherwise sullied by ISA detentions of the Hindraf’s Five and Raja Petra Kamarudin.
#67 by KennyGan on Monday, 29 September 2008 - 8:45 am
1) Don’t take the Merdeka survey as fact. It was conducted only in the Umno stronghold of Pekan, Johor so the Malay response is slanted. The large Chinese response (40%) of undecided or don’t know shows there’s something wrong.
2) Abdullah is not Anwar’s friend. Remember how he took Saifool’s side in the sodomy II.
3) If Abdullah wants to keep his job, the most direct way is to contest the post in Umno rather than the uncertainty of general elections where BN can even be booted out.
4) Abdullah handing the keys of parliament to Anwar does not arise as Anwar doesn’t have the numbers.
5) An independent Chinese research house survey showed that 80% of Gerakan members want out of BN, not 60% as claimed by Koh now.
4)
#68 by lofuji on Monday, 29 September 2008 - 10:13 am
AAB can have 101 options but still not good enuf.It is not the people who makes the decisions:it is UMNO members who want him out,get it?
Kwei ta kwei.Never mind la let them have their fun.This corrupt culture inherited from TDM will not go away by the wave of the magic wand.
Remember Tunku’s wise words ‘give them enuf rope,they wil hang themselves’
#69 by veddy.lum74 on Monday, 29 September 2008 - 10:14 am
fair play,
if a pm were to be a ‘yesman’ to his cabinet,the rakyat,whom are the boss,might as well show him to the exit door!
he is not supposed to serve the less-than-hundred personnels cabinet,he should consider the rakyat’s interests as priorities,further more,i think he is taking a big ride on the rakyat!
no wonder so many ppl calling him a lame duck!
if the senators give constructive ideas to pm,he should accept;if majority of the senators are racist,yesman,lameduck,running-dog,betrayer,selfish,crony-practisioner,corrupt fellow,the pm should be ended too for selecting a rubbish cabinet!
i guess,not many ppl will remember this sleeping-head!
#70 by madmix on Monday, 29 September 2008 - 12:13 pm
Why would Abdullah take options 3 or 4. He may be dopey but he is certainly not insane.