When Bersih announced it would hold another rally on Nov 19, there was concern among its steering committee whether it would garner traction among the people.
There were several reasons for this:
Political fatigue
Malaysians have grown tired of the political situation and the never-ending 1MDB saga. Those who support the opposition are disappointed with the infighting among the parties, and their lack of direction.
What good are these rallies?
This is one of those often-asked questions. In the past, tens of thousands took to the streets with placards and banners, braving the heat or rain, the possibility of being doused with tear gas and chemical-laced water, and even being arrested. But in the end, little, if nothing changed.
The Mahathir factor
The opposition and civil society have been divided over working with Dr Mahathir Mohamad. They are not prepared to forgive or forget the past.
Lack of Malay participation
This was reflected in the previous rally. Without PAS, Bersih and the other opposition parties do not have the ability to mobilise Malays in the rural areas.