Many pundits have predicted the 12th General Elections as a sure fire for non-UMNO component parties in BN. The main beneficiary of the perceived growing negative sentiments towards the government which stemmed from several minority communities are expected to be the Democratic Action Party (DAP).
Both PKR and DAP have announced an election pact in Penang and leaders from the parties are working on similar arrangements around the country. Penang is expected to be a frontline state for the opposition. A number of politicians from the BN have expected some mega contests in the state.
Meanwhile, the opposition is buoyed by the negative sentiments and hope that the shift of voters' sentiments will be to their advantage. I am sure they will stand to benefit from some shift of support from BN to the opposition especially in urban seats. However, such a shift is not sustainable or permanent.
The opposition strategy of harping on issues and faults of the BN does not guarantee them a winnable strategy or a shot at governance. They must be able to convince voters to seriously consider an alternative government.
Malaysian voters must not vote on their sentiments alone. Majority of the voters still vote along ethnic lines. This general elections will be a test on the maturity of the voters. They must vote for candidates, regardless of political affiliation, who are trustworthy, capable and incorruptible.
Malaysians will decide if we are ready to demand for better accountability and move beyond racial politics.
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