In recent months, Umno has embarked on a mission to rid mosques and suraus of what its leaders called activities and abuse by PAS and its sympathisers. In Selangor, the government of Menteri Besar Mohd Khir Toyo has sent out its over-zealous Islamic officials to take over the running of mosques from what he has called unprofessional people.

He claimed that the move was to put into motion an administrative machinery to better govern mosques for the good of local Muslims. Everybody knows that it is just a ploy to replace existing officer-bearers, whom he considers as PAS supporters, with Umno men. For the benefit of non-Muslims let me explain why Umno has had to resort to such desperate measures!

Firstly, it is a common secret that mosques are regularly frequented by PAS sympathisers. It is true that Umno people also pray at mosques but from my observation, their numbers are small and they can only be seen at a few occasions like when the Sultan or MB were present. This is the true character of Umno Muslims who only use mosques as a means to an end and not as a way of life ( addin ).

The recent seizure of the mosque in Bangi was unfortunate as the government had refused to accept the office-bearers whom the people wanted. Currently, not many people go to pray at the mosque and many are being turned away by the activities which include inviting guest speakers who only speak good of government policies and nothing else.

Yes, there are religious talks, but the people are no longer interested as Umno has officially politicised mosques using the government stamp. Is this what Umno is all about? A big bully who does not give hoot to freedom of speech and the right to elect representatives of their own choice.?

Umno's move to seize mosques is a desperate attempt by the party to shore support that has been on the decline. Such miscalculation by Umno leaders in trying to play fire by meddling in mosques will surely benefit PAS.

The Islamic state document will sway Muslims to support PAS, as Umno's style of Islam is no longer relevant unlike some 50 years ago. Yes, Muslims have changed for the better during that period. Umno will have to keep with the change or be left in a time warp.

No level-minded Muslim will support Umno's brand of watered down Islam if not the materials gains that can be derived from giving undivided loyalty. Yes, election is in the air. The mainstream media is full of stories predicting an easy kill for BN. But just like in previous elections, they will continue to lose votes.

Beware the votes of the silent Muslims who cannot come forward to make their voices heard for fear of a Umno/BN/government backlash!