Quo Vadis, DSAI?

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"We have the Numbers"
-DSAI

"The most important thing about power is to make sure you don't have to use it."
-Edwin Land

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So he says .... and I believe it.
The numbers though, aren't likely to be such that the majority would be "unshakeable". This can be quite "unsettling", especially with the numerous (possibly) "uncooperative" elements in the instruments of state. Without a doubt - he has the pop appeal, and should by right be in power.

However, that isn't all that matters - even though that is what "Democracy" is supposed to be. Power in a state also depends on the confidence that one can instill in the "institutions of state" and the elite.
Having had a government that functioned as a "nanny" that controlled all facets/institutions state (more so over the last 25yrs), it would be tough for Anwar to take over without a significantly overwhelming electoral majority. In fact, it would be somewhat "destabilising", as these institutions, have their "own anxieties" too. They fear a "social revolution" and a purge along the lines of certain other states, resulting in flight of opportunities and capital.

They basically fear the unknown.

First and foremost, DSAI needs to allay the fears of "the elite" and the civil service (with are beholden to Umno) that there wouldn't be a witch-hunt, should he come to power. After all, (right or wrong) vendetta cannot be ruled out, and we imagine/know of many a skeleton that has been in the closets for decades - hence the fears of the "stakeholders".
Also it would be advisable to consider what Henry Wallace said i.e., "A fascist is one whose lust for money or power is combined with such an intensity of intolerance toward those of other races, parties, classes, religions, cultures, regions or nations as to make him ruthless in his use of deceit or violence to attain his ends."

We are in a Catch-22 situation.
Should he not move fast enough, the damage to the instituions of state and socio-economic status would be disastrous - and many would suffer (including ISA detainees).
If he did though, and if I were to speculate, it wouldn't be to far-fetched to say that chaos would would ensue, should Anwar rush it - after all, the "stakeholders" are still quite uncomfortable with his meteoric rise and return to power.

This is what RPK was most concerned about, when he proposed a "Unity Government" with the BN - the "realpolitik" so to speak.
Considering the circumstances, such an "arrangement" doesn't sound too feasible, as it is well known how some parties practise their hegemony and strive to emasculate and corrupt their "allies".

The powers that be (and many people) aren't too comfortable with the political changes that have happened at lightning speed, after the sloth for the last 10yrs. Rather than be in too much of a rush, I'd rather they (PR) consolidate their own electoral pact/ victory and learn the "tricks of the trade while patiently do some quality "head-hunting".
In fact, it is paramount that they actually come to a better "social contract" so as to agree on a modus operandi to achieve their aims in a more subtle manner, for a more sustainable future.

If there was anything I would like to say to DSAI, it would go along these lines -

"Why don't you take it easy for a while DS. Patience DS, patience - don't rush it ........ but fight you must.
While you are indeed quite "seasoned" with undoubted leadership qualities, bear in mind that most of your allies have never tasted power before - let them learn. Too much power, too fast can have a corrupting effect, no matter how virtuous one may be.

Yes many with vested interests will goad you on, and the people will support you as long as the "euphoric wave" persist - but it would be better if you ride on a wave of credibility. Thus far we have got little beyond the tsunami of dissatisfaction (aided by TDM and Umno internal conflict) to speak of.

Moreover, the "victory" that you have achieved was to a certain extent, a victory as a result of "rebellion" of sorts. The electoral pact, is just that - a pact, and not an alliance. The defeat that BN has faced was nothing less than death itself - and don't expect them to give in without fighting tooth and nail. In such a position as they are in, it can be quite expected that they'd "fight dirty".

You are a leader that Malaysia has been wanting for 50yrs - don't let it go to waste, DS. The people need you. If you can deliver, even half of what you have promised, rest assured that the people will not desert you. Be patient DS.
After all, you did already achieve the inconceivable in such a short time. Try to get into a comfortable position with your allies, before you move on to the next level .... no need for a "unity govt". Get used to being in the opposition, with the new breed of leaders.
I do understand that it's imperative that the ISA detainees be released - but it's the "tension" created and the nervousness of a shaky government that has partly led to this predicament. Why don't we at least try other ways to get them out? We haven't exhausted all options, have we?
Let the "stakeholders" (the people and the elite) trust you more, and be more comfortable with the changes that we expect. With the forces of globalization, Malaysia has to change - with or without you, or else we are doomed.

While most Malaysians do support your ideals DS, it would be wise to keep in mind that the uncertainties you propose, makes them nervous.

What's the big deal if it is done a little slower while educating the public on your ideals, with a little less "stress"? It would probably speak more of your (PR's) resilience in the face of adversity. It would in fact be a more stabilizing factor, should you be able to garner a greater groundswell of support among the Malay electorate.

What I say may be wrong, but isn't too far from the truth - I believe it is worth considering."

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"Faith consists in believing when it is beyond the power of reason to believe."
-Voltaire

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