Towards a more effective Opposition

Even whilst the elections are ongoing, it seems like a foregone conclusion that Barisan Nasional would win, and most likely with its 2/3 majority intact. Under such circumstances, how can there be a more effective Opposition when the new Parliament is formed? Let me suggest a few ways:

First, the Opposition must drop the notion that the BN government is solely self-centred, and does not concern about the rakyat. If the Opposition continually harps on the BN being self-centred, corrupt, etc, can anyone expect the BN to even give the Opposition a fair chance to say what it wants to say, much less to be heard? If on the other hand the Opposition work on the premise that the BN is out to do its best, albeit imperfectly, then BN may be more willing to listen to its own shortcomings once in a while.

Second, democracy generally and Opposition politics specifically cannot be merely about making demands. Demands to abolish NEP are non-starters, because to even agree to have a discussion on this issue would jeopardise BN's interests. The Opposition may do better by addressing the peripherals. For example, bargaining for more opportunities to participate in Government tenders, even under limited circumstances, may be more productive than issuing ultimatums for open tenders to be held.

Third, the Opposition must stop focusing on proposals that do not take into consideration BN's legitimate interests. BN wants to stay in power. BN wants to be respected as the duly elected government. Proposals to help them become a better government would be taken in a more positive light than proposals construed to embarrass then or run them down.

Fourth, the Opposition must give due regard to the process of democracy and the conduct of Parliament. Are the odds stacked against the Opposition? Of course. But can one Opposition member take up the challenge to gain enough respect from the Speaker and from the Government in order to be given the space to ventilate his views? Possibly. There must therefore be an end to walk-outs and shouting matches, even when the BN MPs behave badly. After all, seeing a monkey in the zoo does not compel us to behave like one.

Fifth, don't just harp on the negatives. To be accepted as a credible Opposition, and to achieve productive results despite the odds, there must be some co-operation with the BN. The BN, regardless of how bad they can be, are not always bad. Compliment them when they do well. Work with them to improve areas that are lacking.

Sixth, resort to talking instead of walking. Serious issues cannot be resolved on the streets. It must be resolved with patience and persistence, always with integrity and rational discussion. It may even be more fruitful to seek for change in less pressing items than the big ones, to seek incremental progress and build the foundation of co-operation that can be useful when addressing the bigger issues. Hard work? Definitely, but in public issues, the shortest distance may not necessarily be a straight line.

Finally, a bigger picture is at stake. If elections are perceived to be unfair and a mere pretext to bring BN back to power, then we are truly on the brink of a revolution. If the Opposition thinks this is the case, they should boycott all future elections, refuse to take office, and agitate in the streets. If however elections are perceived to be lopsided, but nevertheless a reflection of the voice of the people, then the Opposition should accept its mandated role- help create a better government, not necessarily to overthrow it.

Yes, politics is about power. But more than power, it is about effecting change and improving lives, and this can be done behind the scenes as well.

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I'll be glad to take your questions or comments. Drop me an e-mail at khenghoe@mycounsel.com.my.