I refer to the malaysiakini report Errant MPs apologise over sexist remarks . The manner in which the apologies were politically managed and extracted from two reluctant and arrogant parliamentarians brings nothing less than contempt to all right thinking Malaysians.

More so since the manner and tone of the apologies that were extracted are seen more to pacify the groundswell of anger and disgust that were seen in and out of the country rather than sincere contrition.

Nowhere in their statements was there remorse or an acceptance that what they did and have been doing in the august house is frowned upon by all Malaysians irrespective of the political divide. In fact they still had the audacity to state that their comments were to 'defend the government during debates' which is adding insult to injury.

When attempting to 'defend the government' must one resort to vulgarity? Is this a hallmark of the present leadership style that preaches about transparency, good governance, accountability and the much-lauded concepts of Islam Hadhari?

These two are mere political charlatans among others, whose continued presence as MPs would only bring shame, ridicule and contempt to the Abdullah Ahmad Badawi administration.

I realise in our political culture and context - despite a 50-year history - we may not have the courage, conviction and religious grace to ask these two to voluntarily resign as MPs or better still to sack them.

We are aware of the 'fear of by-elections' at this juncture when the administration is confronting the many challenges and unending allegations of mismanagement, corruption and lack of direction.

Fair enough but the Abdullah administration must take into cognisance that we must act honourably' when our MPs misbehave and there is no two ways about that. If we want to be respected at home and abroad, we must show respect, more so, in the august house.

The next general election may not be far away and it is pertinent for the image of Malaysia, the Barisan Nasional and more so, of our beloved Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi that the selection process for MPs and state assemblymen be stringent enough to differentiate between academically qualified statesmen and political charlatan, jesters and thugs.