LETTER | GE14 represents the best and possibly the last chance to initiate a two-party system which usually symbolises a vibrant, liberal and healthy democracy.

With a star-studded team comprising Dr Mahathir Mohamad, Anwar Ibrahim, Wan Azizah, Muhyiddin Yassin, Lim Kit Siang, Lim Guan Eng, Azmin Ali, Tian Chua, P Ramasamy, Xavier Jayakumar, R Sivarasa, Mohd Sabu and others, there is a big possibility of tipping the balance this time and ushering in a Pakatan Harapan government almost 60 years after Merdeka.

It is no point favourably comparing Malaysia to Singapore where a one-party rule has brought stability and prosperity. Malaysia should, in fact, be unfavourably compared to South Korea and Taiwan which have attained stability, prosperity and a vibrant democracy in a short time of only 30 years despite having major security threats.

Failing this time, the opposition may not be able to change the BN government for a generation or two. The aftermath of a Harapan defeat could be devastating – an economic slow down in the short term, the possible migration of the young to other more favourable countries, a feeling of helplessness and general despondency, an ebb in the interest in the media etc.

There is a possibility of a hardening of attitude towards various groups. Many of the elder statesmen may not be around for long and the people must take the initiative to usher in a two-party system for the well-being of the country in the future.

Harapan and the BN can administer the country one after the other according to the people’s choice. Malaysia, unlike many other nations after their independence, has had the good fortune of being helmed by able leaders from Tunku Abdul Rahman onwards.

Malaysia should not be a stagnant democracy of one-party rule which lends itself to various negative elements in the political administration such as abuse of power, lack of transparency and accountability, lack of check and balances,corruption, little regard for the separation of powers, abuse of care-taker government powers, dictatorial laws, racist and religious bigotry, cronyism etc which have increasingly exposed the vulnerability of the country in the last one to two decades.

The recent constituency redelineations were an agenda to prevent the possibility of a two-party system ever taking root in the country by creating lopsided racial constituencies knowing fully well that our nation is founded on multi-racial unity and harmony for its progress and success.

GE14 symbolises the climaxing of the undercurrent of change which began with the new millennium, and the younger, educated and brave generation has made a major impact on the continuing momentum through the Bersih rallies, the Hindraf demonstration followed by the wresting of Selangor and Penang - two the country’s most prosperous states and ruling them efficiently.

What more evidence do the people want that Harapan can also administer the nation well? The last 10 years have provided them with experience and expertise. The large number of Harapan MPs will also ensure an effective back-up for the new administration.

On top of that we have Mahathir - if he is elected - with his vast experience leading the charge. Possibly, it is god’s second blessing for the country through Mahathir. The first was for the rapid progress during his first term, the second to stop the regress of the nation. It is very rare for a 93-year-old (or is it young?) former prime minster who wants to be premier again, this time to arrest the declining governmental values and totalitarian characteristics for many of which he is to blame.

Not many premiers are lucky as Mahathir who wants to go back and head the government to correct the wrongs of his first administration. His various confrontations with the government has infuriated him even more. The Registrar of Societies, the Election Commission and other episodes have given him a taste of his own bitter medicine.

All these should remind him of his 22-year-rule. Mahathir has promised in the first 100 days and two years of premiership to reform and change a wide spectrum of out-dated and draconian laws such as the OSA, which is the main cause of corruption and abuse; and also reform government institutions such as the EC which recently came out with the redelineation exercise and also bring about pro-active changes in every aspect of government.

A whole range of departments need to be overhauled and foremost among them could be the Immigration (foreign workers and permits), the police, the national registration department, the MACC and others. The country will thank him endlessly if he keeps his promise and not compromise.

Mahathir should re-hash the NEP and ensure an affirmative action policy for all deserving Malaysians regardless of race or creed. Electing him as prime minister again to right the wrongs he made previously is the “punishment” the people impose on him. The biggest gift of the people could be to see him as the leader in 2020 when his pet project - Vision 2020 - becomes an achievement and reality.

My only advice on a humorous note to our Tun will be to not even think of the re-initiating the “crooked bridge” or go for a “third round” with Anwar Ibrahim. Both of you are advancing in age and should opt for peace, sincerity and forgiveness.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.