The recent war against graft declared by Pak Lah is the fruit of a group of young intellectuals bold enough to challenge the corrupted system in Malaysia.

Many corrupted Umno old goats from the 'Old Order' regime are counting their days while preparing to strike back in order to ensure their political survival.

Pak Lah had stated publicly that taking bribe is as sinful as for Muslims to consume pork. This statement deserves praise from those who hate corruption. It is a very simple yet effective comparison of graft for those professing the Islamic religion.

Only two public figures have been charged, but a majority of Malaysians believe that the defendants will walk out free in this anti-graft 'drama'. The one very obvious link in this episode is the same defence lawyer representing both defendants.

Experienced spectators of the Malaysia judiciary can expect to see the defendants leaving the courts as free men, once the story ends in 'Pak Lah's anti-graft drama.

However, some may view Pak Lah as serious in fighting graft, but his capacity seems confined only to feather weight politicians and businessmen who are too sick to go through the legal process.

The rich and powerful will remain untouchable. Former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad, MIC president S Samy Vellu, former MCA president Dr Ling Liong Sik, International Trade Minister Rafidah Aziz, Information Minister Khalil Yaakob, former Selangor menteri besarMuhammad Muhd Taib and businessmen Vincent Tan, Tajuddin Ramli, Halim Said and Lee Kim Yew.

Although Pak Lah has the strong support of a young and restless Oxbridge team led by his son-in-law Khairy Jamaluddin, his political will may not see him through the coming Umno general assembly, arriving after the general election.

Pak Lah's political survival will depend on the Umno general assembly and any overzealous action against graft may confirm his departure from Seri Perdana sooner than expected.