Khoo Kay Peng's mid-term review of Pak Lah's maiden term as PM, inevitably brings up comparisons with the performance of his predecessor, Dr M. Only two years down the road, many are already talking about Pak Lah's would-be successor, as compared to the almost 20 years that Mahathir had before such talk was even whispered, Ku Li's challenge excepted.

In retrospect, Ku Li's challenge was perhaps the main reason that made Umno what it is today when Mahathir in his subsequent paranoia made it almost impossible for there to be any constructive leadership reformation and rejuvenation within Umno itself.

What we have instead is a very poor calibre Umno where Pak Lah unfortunately is the best of the worst as it were. There is no doubt that Pak Lah is a good man of high morals, is well-meaning and has the best of the nation's interest at heart. But can he run our country?

All indications are sadly not. His lack of confidence is especially glaring when he refuses to take a stand on controversial issues like the AP fiasco and more recently, the nude ear squats furore. Our PM cannot be seen hiding behind a report.

He lack of mastery of many subjects also makes him vulnerable, easily influenced by people even like his son-in-law. He seems paralysed by fear, unable to grasp the myriad of implications that his one action can bring, and more crucially, face up to the consequences.

On top of all this, he still wants to portrayed as Mr Nice Guy, perhaps in particular contrast to his predecessor.

I hope that Pak Lah wakes up from his blissful state of denial before it is too late, less he wants to remembered in history as our 'accidental PM'.