An editorial in (then) Parti Keadilan Nasional's official bulletin, Seruan Keadilan , was an eye-opener for me. I am now convinced that I have been misled into thinking that Keadilan is (was?) a party which stood for justice for all Malaysians and one which, more importantly, transcends religious and racial boundaries.

That particular piece confirms the accusations hurled at the party - that it is just an extended mouthpiece of PAS. At least the latter does not disguise itself as something it is not - its very existence is based on how Islam should be practised, according to their misguided interpretation.

No wonder Hishamuddin Rais, a true champion of democracy who, despite being a Malay/Muslim, is not afraid to declare his support for a secular Malaysia, does not want to become a member of Keadilan. His reasoning is that all political parties cannot be fully trusted because they will bend and sacrifice principles for the sake of votes.

And that is what the originally multi-racial non-religious party has done. I remember pre-election ceramahs when its leaders gave the impression that this was one party which would be driven by justice and democracy, although it will uphold Islam as the official religion and continue the affirmative actions to help backward Malays.

What justice and democracy is there when Malay/Muslims are still forced to toe the line where syariah law is concerned? Such a deceptive perception of democracy is not surprising when propagated by PAS, but a substantial and increasing number of Malays had hoped that Keadilan would be the one party they could count on for true democracy.

I know many Malays have stopped supporting the party because of its inclination to support PAS. I wonder when Tian Chua, Irene Fernandez and other non-Malays in Keadilan will realise that the party is not for them either.