I refer to the criticism hurled by Mustapha Ong to Dean Johns on the latter's article on Pak Lah.

Dean Johns has the right to express his opinion as much as every Malaysian does. Mustapha's threats of Special Branch and deportation are only for those who do not know the law.

We need people to examine the political and discriminative laws of our country, the corrupt practices, the racial inequalities, etc. Currently only through malaysiakini can this be achieved and Johns has used this medium to state his views.

Mustapha should also remember the baseless criticisms that Mahathir hurled at Singapore, Australia and Western governments while he was in power.

Freedom of speech should be practiced in a democratic country and these criticisms should be examined in order to move forward with progress and prosperity.