MP SPEAKS People say that life is full of unexpected twists and turns. But none of these mysterious unfoldings of life prepared me for the tragic news of Bukit Gelugor MP Karpal Singh’s passing.
A gutsy lawyer, fearless fighter, party leader and respected politician - I mourn his passing as I write this tribute to a leader, whose friendship I cherished.
It’s not easy to find a person like him. As a politician, Karpal spoke out on issues without fear or favour, not caring two hoots about repercussions.
He has been slammed one too many times and branded anti-Islam for ferociously articulating his stand against the formation of an Islamic state or the implementation of hudud laws. Karpal never once minced his words or cared about diplomatic niceties even when the sticky issue involved a coalition partner, PAS.
Karpal often clashed with ruling lawmakers and the speaker in Parliament. His last words to the Speaker at the recently ended sitting were, “ Tuan speaker, jangan main-main dengan perlembagan ” (Mr speaker, don’t play with the constitution).
This is despite receiving a two-day suspension from Parliament in October 2008, for calling speaker Pandikar Amin Mulia “not serious” and “playful”.
Karpal has also been at loggerheads for speaking out against the royalty.
He once criticised the then-Agong, Sultan Iskandar, for assaulting two men who were brought to the palace by the police. He refused to apologise following an uproar by Members of Parliament from the ruling party and instead filed a lawsuit against the then-Agong in 1986 on behalf of one of the men.
Karpal lost the case but won the hearts of millions of people for his principles, integrity and dedication to upholding the law.
It’s the fearless outspoken character of Karpal which led to a charge of sedition against him. He said the Perak sultan could be sued for allegedly acting above his constitutional powers by appointing Zambry Abdul Kadir as the menteri besar of Perak.
His courage and consistency has earned him the respect of senior judges and lawyers.
I have been fortunate to be a part in his life’s journey. Karpal campaigned for me in Klang in 2008 and 2013. We had our moments of laughter and serious chats. These moments will be cherished forever.
Grit and determination
I, too, have learnt a lot from Karpal’s grit and determination. Although a 2005 car accident left him paralysed, never once did I see him let his immobility stop him from doing the things he wanted to do.
We have seen many disrespectful photos and tweets following Karpal’s passing. I have had many phone calls since morning from angry supporters and friends who were livid with anger.
But I do believe that the uncouth behaviour of these individuals need not be publicised any further as it only demonstrates their upbringing.
Karpal’s passing is a loss to the nation, to politics and the legal fraternity. He stood tall with his principles and his dedication to fight for a better Malaysia.
I have seen the proposals from many for a state funeral in Penang. And I, too, believe it would be a befitting farewell to the Tiger of Jelutong.
Karpal is no more. But the roar of his unrelenting fight would continue to dominate Malaysia’s judiciary and politics.
CHARLES SANTIAGO is member of Parliament, Klang.
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