To be independent is the true mark of courage. Fathi Aris Omar's expose of corruption ( KKN Kelantan, T'ganu macam Umno

) shows clearly that the citizenry cannot rely on party politics to resolve the most pressing problems of the nation.

For the last four years, the desire for a democratic and plural Malaysia has been held hostage to the false choice of "BN or BA". We must return to a democratic movement not dominated by party politics, that's is consultative and inclusive.

I commend Fathi for being on the side of "the rakyat", of the promise of genuine change, of principles that will carry us forward.

His detractors, especially those who claim democratic credentials, should take a good look at themselves. Remember Nietzsche's injunction: "Whoever fights monsters should see to it that in the process he does not become a monster. And when you look long into an abyss, the abyss also looks into you."

The shameless political pragmatism of these so-called progressives is precisely what has led us to the messed-up mediocrity we suffer from now.