I remember that former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad used to defend ministers with poor records (such as the works minister who had a history of ‘cracked’ bridges and loan defaults) saying they would learn from mistakes and thereby improve.

I suppose if we use that argument, the good doctor should be in the best position to propose changes to a system of corruption set up mainly by him, since he should have learned by now how best to stop it.

What people should beware of, though, is the timing of the reformasi zeal coming from this shrewd manipulator. Despite the selective amnesia of some of the witnesses, the Lingam tape inquiry is revealing the slippery tentacles trying to compromise the nation.

Hence, it is the best time for this ‘tentacle master’ to sound righteous.

Malaysians, do not be fooled yet again. The man’s intentions are clear. He wants to continue ruling through Deputy Prime Minister Najib Razak after the ritual of a Abdullah Ahmad Badawi interlude - just as Suharto and the evil Ne Win of Burma ruled through ‘chosen’ successors.

His priorities, as always, are himself and his cronies - not Malaysia. And I don’t say this in defence of the incompetence of Pak Lah either.