Malaysian politics is in a serious moral quandary. Dr Mahathir Mohamad's departure from the scene after 22 years of rule has left a vacuum, with differing nuances.

Mahathir's rule concentrated on economic prosperity at the peril of civil liberties. The idea of the 'Asian values', where collective interest preceded individual freedom and justice, was often invoked to keep the economic engine running at an ever-higher pace. In the absence of oversight and transparency corruption, at both corporate and public levels, became rampant.

One may differ with Mahathir's style of politics, often flamboyant and verging at the borders of megalomaniac behaviour, with the state media mindlessly honking 'Malaysia Boleh' slogans, one cannot overlook the fallout in improvement in quality of life for most Malaysians. Economic opportunities were widened though much was left to be desired.

His leadership left little for an open society. The indiscriminate use of draconian laws such as the Internal Security Act has kept Malaysia in an atmosphere of fear. It is the same fear, coupled with the lure of economic corruption, that has blurred the minds of the politicians.

It is predictable that those who in the past not only gave a nod to Anwar Ibrahim's ouster by Mahathir but did all they could to reinforce his stance by legal or illegal means would not have the moral courage today to come out clean. In the past, they pursued a political agenda and today it is no different.

Transcending above partisan politics requires a moral commitment. If there is a single lesson to be learnt out of Anwar's saga it is that one's moral strength brings ultimate triumph in politics. It is the same argument that should be invoked to allow free speech to Mahathir - something that he stifled during his reign. In his public statements, Anwar has upheld this right of Mahathir to free expression.

Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has remained silent in response to Mahathir's allegations while members of his cabinet have taken shots on the former prime minister. Let us not forget that leadership by proxy is not the best option to maintain favourable public opinion. Anwar has urged upon Abdullah to respond to Mahathir's criticism. Isn't it time for all to heed Anwar's call for transparency in governance?