When Politicians Choose Ego Over People

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 Perikatan Nasional has made its priorities clear - reject, refuse, and resist. Time and again, it refuses to negotiate on parliamentary allocations, leaving its own constituencies without the resources they deserve.
Whenever there is a chance to discuss and find common ground, PN chooses to walk away. But in this game of rejection, who suffers? It is not the politicians, but the rakyat in their constituencies, who are denied the resources they deserve.
PN says their decision is based on constitutional rights, moral values, and concerns over misuse of power. But by refusing to even sit at the table, they are putting politics above the well-being of the rakyat.
The purpose of parliamentary allocations is simple - to ensure every area gets fair development, no matter which party the MP belongs to. By rejecting discussions outright, PN is not punishing the government, but the people who voted for them.
Opposition is not about saying no to everything
A strong opposition is important in a democracy, but being in opposition does not mean rejecting everything the government offers. If PN believes that the memorandum of understanding on allocations is unfair, their job is to negotiate better terms, not refuse it completely.
By rejecting discussions, they are sending the wrong message - that political pride is more important than securing resources for the people they serve. They talk about defending democracy, but their refusal to engage shows a lack of responsibility.
When opposition-led areas lack development, poor infrastructure, or much-needed funding, PN will be quick to blame the government. But how can they point fingers when they are the ones rejecting resources meant for their constituencies?
This is not about government control versus opposition independence. It is about whether politicians are willing to put aside their egos and do what is right for the people. True leadership is about ensuring progress, not playing political games.
Integrity and credibility: Can PN talk about fairness?
Another issue is the credibility of PN leaders themselves. Some of them face serious court cases involving corruption, abuse of power, and money laundering.
If PN is truly rejecting the MOU to protect integrity, then why are some of their leaders not upholding the same values within their party? The rakyat deserves real accountability, not leaders who pick and choose when to talk about justice.
EPF withdrawals: Solution or political trick?
Besides the issue of allocations, PN has been pushing for targeted withdrawals from the Employees Provident Fund. Their argument sounds simple - let the rakyat use their own money to cope with financial struggles. But is this a solution, or just a political move to win public sympathy?
The economic situation today is not like the Covid-19 crisis when withdrawals were necessary for survival. Telling people to take out their retirement savings now, without thinking about their future, is irresponsible.
This move does not solve the real issue - the rising cost of living. Instead of giving real solutions like job creation, higher wages, or better social welfare, PN is telling the rakyat to sacrifice their future for short-term relief. Is this responsible leadership, or just a shortcut to gain political points?
When will PN stop rejecting everything?
The unity government has been open to discussions. Instead of taking this opportunity to fight for fairer allocations, PN continues to refuse negotiations. If the government is willing to talk, why is PN still refusing to join the discussion?
By constantly rejecting offers to negotiate, PN is showing that they prefer to complain rather than work towards a solution. They cannot say they are being sidelined when they are the ones choosing to step aside.
Being in opposition is not just about saying no to everything. It is about offering better ideas, challenging policies with logic, and ensuring the government is accountable. Right now, PN is doing none of these.
People deserve better
It is normal for the opposition to question policies, push for improvements and demand transparency. But leadership is more than just protesting - it is about knowing when to negotiate, compromise, and put the rakyat first.
If PN continues to reject everything, they will not just be seen as an opposition to the government - but an opposition to progress. The rakyat should not be caught in the middle of political games.
EPF withdrawals and parliamentary allocations should not be used as political weapons. If PN truly cares about the rakyat, they should be willing to sit down, talk, and secure the best outcome - not walk away just to prove a political point.
Leadership is not about making noise - it is about making a difference. The rakyat has no use for political theatrics. They need leaders who work for their future, not those who gamble with their well-being. - Mkini
MAHATHIR MOHD RAIS is a former Federal Territories Bersatu and Perikatan Nasional secretary.
The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of MMKtT.

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