The ‘rakyat’ have been inundated with numerous challenges of late. Ranging from a never-ending constipated short supply of cooking oil all across the country which the authorities deny to the inability to buy the same amount of groceries for every ringgit as each day slips by. The working class people and ordinary businessmen are beginning to feel the yoke of financial burden as the months keep rolling by.

Against this background, we see an imminent threat of more price hikes and a possible short supply of essential goods while the nation remains pregnant with speculation as to when the general elections will be called.

In the meantime, the existing ruling party, which forms the government of the day, will earn a great deal of plus-points if it directs all politicians and those holding public office to declare their assets and to account for their wealth and financial standing as well as their lifestyles on and off duty.

It is no secret that there are many in office seemingly leading an extravagant and opulent lifestyles. Just take stock of the kind of houses they have built, the fleet of vintage and power cars in their stables, the holidays their families bask in - in fact, the list is left to one’s imagination.

There is nothing wrong if it is a rich businessman who works hard to accumulate wealth through sheer honesty. But when a government servant living on a monthly salary is able to have so much more ornaments and jewelry, not to mention almost every imaginable imported luxury item in the office and at home, is it a crime to ask 'how come'? Worse, must such perceptions always be backed with hard evidence before action can be initialed?

If ministers who profess to represent the interest of the rakyat and claim to be working day and night for the love of service before self, are instead basking in sports and fancies that are often associated within the corridors of the rich and famous, it would be a challenge for the leadership to account to the man in the street.

But if the honourable prime minister can command a full account and declaration from his men in arms to a legitimate and honourable audit team, it will certainly go a long way for another sweet victory for them come polling day.

On that same token, if such a public exposure is wanting, it may just add salt to the wounded ‘rakyat's’ current hardships and the results will show despite all these past 50 years of success by the ruling party.

The ultimate choice is in the hands of the leadership while the verdict remains within the legitimate perimeters of democracy at the ballot box.