What's the difference between conviction and convenience?

When the opposition first fought for a Malaysia for all Malaysians irregardless of race and religion, it was not fashionable. That’s conviction.

When the opposition asked that ‘Malaysia Day’ be recognised as a national holiday, it was not widely accepted. That’s conviction.

When the opposition stands up for social justice amidst tear gas and the FRU, that’s conviction.

When we call for an end to the oppressive, colonial ISA law. it is based on conviction.

When Prime Minister Najib Razak initiates ‘1Malaysia’ amidst declining BN support, that’s convenience.

When Najib declares ‘Malaysia Day’ a national holiday after much hullabaloo, that’s convenience.

When Najib goes out of his way to form a ‘Makkal Sakti’ party and listen to the Indian community, that’s convenience.

When one is willing to stand up for a principle or a believe in something amidst persecution and resistance, that’s conviction. This is a person who is guided by principles.

When the prime minister now adopts whatever the opposition has been fighting for, it begs to be questioned; is he genuine?

Is it merely for popularity and for voters to return?

As for me, I remain sceptical because these is the very same person who shouted for Chinese blood, unsheathed the keris and spoke venomous lyrics not too long ago.