Pak Lah will rise to occasion, says analysts

comments     Arfaeza A Aziz     Published     Updated

Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi is capable of rising to the occasion as the country's premier contrary to the belief that he lacks the political clout of outgoing Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamed.

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia's Political Science lecturer Prof P Ramasamy told malaysiakini that he is positive that Abdullah's leadership will contribute to the country's political and economic stability.

"Of course there are differences in leadership style but Abdullah carries no baggage with him as he has never been involved in any scandal or controversy. I think that his leadership will be more effective and democratic," said Ramasamy.

On the perception that Abdullah is weak and unable to handle the current political scenario, Ramasamy dismissed these as propaganda by those with vested interest who are still uncomfortable with Mahathir's quit decision.

On the contrary, he said, the new leadership will help to improve the country which had been blighted by a series of controversies under Mahathir's leadership. Critics had slammed the authoritative leader for his hand in a litany of abuses involving human rights, judiciary system and financial excesses.

Things came to a fore when he sacked and jailed deputy premier Anwar Ibrahim in 1998.

Transition period creates doubt

Ramasamy however feels that Abdullah should take over the rein from Mahathir's authoritarian leadership immediately as the 15-month transition period only create doubts in the succession of the country's leadership.

"After being in charge for 21 years, I think it's time for Mahathir to leave now and let Abdullah take charge. This will give more stability and certainty to the country's future," he added .

He pointed out that 15 months is a long time and expressed his doubts whether Abdullah will ever succeed Mahathir after October 2003.

During this transition period, past experience tells us that there is always the possibility that may jeopardise Abdullah's chance. In the past, no deputies has ever succeeded Mahathir. Holding the No 2 post actually means that the person can never be the No 1," lamented Ramasamy.

He said the plan also leads to speculation that trouble is brewing within Umno which has always been driven by power-crazy factions jostling for higher posts in the party.

"Further there are senior members who are still not happy with Mahathir leaving the scene. There is always [the danger of] political intrigues that can jeopardise the plan. Things like political conspiracies which took place in the Anwar Ibrahim issue may arise again," he added.

He said the plan also suggests that Mahathir may have his doubts about Abdullah's ability to take the helm.

However, Asian Strategy and Leadership Institute CEO Dr Micheal Yeoh said the power transition plan would allow Mahathir to hand over responsibilities to Abdullah in an orderly fashion.

He also expressed his confidence in Abdullah's leadership.

"Abdullah should be able to rise to the job. He has varied experience at several ministries like the education and foreign affairs. This wide range of experiences will be useful to his performance as the leader," he said.



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