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By Mihar Dias Copyright (C) July 2023
In a recent post on his Facebook page, former premier Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad shed light on a concerning situation plaguing Malaysian politics.
According to Tun M, Numerous prominent Malay personalities have expressed their anxieties about the current government's performance, but they fear the consequences of voicing them openly.
Dr Mahathir took to his Facebook page to draw attention to the gravity of the issue.
The prevailing sentiments among these influential figures indicate a shared belief that the government is not performing up to par.
However, they hesitate to join any movement because of an alarming fear of government retaliation. The potential repercussions they dread include demotion, dismissal, contract cancellations, and even harassment.
The fear is not unfounded, as some individuals worry about being reported to the police, leading to invasive investigations and summonses.
This climate of apprehension even extends to the point of envisioning police vehicles stationed outside their homes, intensifying their sense of vulnerability.
Dr Mahathir also raised concerns over Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's alleged threat to disclose investigation papers concerning former UMNO ministers, denouncing this move as an abuse of power.
He asserted that if such disclosures were to occur, they should apply to all investigations, regardless of the individuals involved.
The selective use of information against political opponents runs counter to democratic principles and raises questions about the government's commitment to upholding a fair and transparent system.
The former premier emphasized the importance of conducting investigations, particularly by the police and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), solely for legitimate criminal actions rather than as a tool for political intimidation.
He stressed the need for responsible governance, avoiding the exploitation of such investigations for partisan political gains, and preserving the essence of democratic values.
Amid the atmosphere of fear that looms over influential individuals, the urgent call for an open and fair democratic process becomes more critical than ever.
Malaysia's democratic principles should ensure that individuals can express their concerns without fear of retribution or suppression.
Encouraging constructive criticism and open dialogue is crucial for fostering a healthy democracy.
As the nation moves forward, it is imperative for the government to address these concerns and create an environment where citizens, regardless of their status or influence, feel safe to voice their opinions openly.
Only through genuine dialogue and a commitment to the principles of democracy can Malaysia strive towards a more inclusive and accountable political landscape.
The hope lies in creating a nation where citizens' voices are heard, valued, and, most importantly, respected.
These values were what Reformasi and Bersih movements fought for then. But now, where have Reformasi and Bersih street fighters gone to?
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