I may not agree with what Jian has written in the letter titled 'MCA factions must fight fair' (Dec 21), but I will certainly defend his or her right to say it.

Moreover, Jian is morally correct in stating that there must be a "fair fight" or a "level playing field" for both factions.

Rhetoric such as fair play, democracy or political principles always sounds good to the innocent, naive and apolitical bystander.

But those who understand politics know that there is no black and white in politics, only grey areas.

And like alcoholics eventually controlled by the bottle, politicians can become drunk by excess power in their hands.

Politicians often make rules they seldom abide-by themselves. They are used to changing rules mid-stream.

As an observer, I have renounced the belief that there is a level playing fields in the real world of politics. And transparency in politics is also a myth.

Jian can be forgiven for being politically naive and simplistic.

My advice is - be wise, don't immediately judge politicians for what they say. But rather, judge them by if or not they practice what they preach.