Malaysiakini's insightful editorial on why Barisan will win again only reinforces the view of many why they will walk away with this one again. So with this foregone conclusion what is this coming elections all about?

It is, I believe, our gilt-edged opportunity to tell the present government our feelings on their performance. Forget about the opposition, it is 'mano a mano' time. The rakyat is holding this government accountable for the trust given to them. Have they delivered?

In determining the 'deliverables', a typical wish-list not necessarily in order of priority would include a peaceful country, healthy economy, provision of basic amenities and infrastructure, good business environment, efficient civil service, independent judiciary, protection of human rights, freedom of expression, low corruption, transparency, etc.

By my reckoning, it could have been much better. Except for keeping the country peaceful, 'helping' big business and developing mega-projects there has been a steady decline in quality of all the other items in my checklist. After over 20 years under Mahathir's government, we have seen a steady loss of faith in public institutions. Plus, we are saddled with the likes of Perwaja and Proton, unsure of their future.

I don't really think we should be 'feeling good' at all. In fact it is they who should be feeling bad - sorry for making us trust a man's vision that has made us squander our riches and compromise our principles and values in the pursuit of 'greatness'.

Pak Lah asks for a resounding majority so that he can deliver the goods. As things stand and are set up, he is almost assured of that. What we have to do is deny him the majority in total number of votes.

Vote for the opposition whoever they are for there is no chance of a new government for now. It is akin to barking at the moon but at least it will help let out some steam and the noise will keep them awake at nights.