reduced and recycled

Dear sir,

The fact that you’ve slammed the hammer down on toes rather than preferring a route more in congruence with this so-called “open atmosphere” is most telling on you.

I’m quite certain a trained mind such as yourself will recognize the merits of disputation and debate to get at the root of dissent. Therefore I am puzzled by your warnings against certain parties, whoever they may be, for stepping over the line, so to speak.

Firstly, what does it mean to “step over the line”? Your well-worn formula requires that views and opinions people express should not infringe upon racial and religious sensitivities. Well, it is precisely these sensitive issues that require explication if not discussion, and “giving” us the freedom to voice our grouses must surely include giving room to speak of these sensitive issues. Your failure to engage disgruntled voices is a fault that lies with you.

Secondly, in what way have people “stepped over the line”? From all I’ve read about your views, you appear to favour the silence of the many; do you expect silence from Moorthy’s wife, from Rayappan’s next of kin? Whose silence will further satisfy you, and does it matter whether the ones you wish silenced suffer more injustice?

I know who I wish were silent during your General Assembly. I wish you had stood up with all your well-meaning sense of justice and righteousness, and denounced your fellow party members who were allowed to make racist comments. Who was “stepping over the line” then, and what else did they receive but slaps on wrists?

Again, instead of engaging views contrary to your own, you allow views that, in fact, stir up more of the hatred your government fears. Isn’t that the problem with UMNO? You “allow” the freedom to express views, as if it such freedoms are the preserve of governments, and then you sit back and say, “you’re talking too much,” when in fact, we are just talking, but you are not communicating.

What a tragic, tragic shame.