Sulu Incursion – “Sabah has NO reason refusing to support BN.”

Before combat operations are even completed against the Sulu militants in Sabah, analysts are already counting the political winners and losers, with one declaring on Wednesday that Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s all-out military action had “restored public confidence” in the state that has 56 seats to be won at GE13. 

That might be a little simplistic, but it is clear that right across Malaysia public opinion has been shaped by the events happening in a corner of a single state. So who has emerged from this crisis with their reputation enhanced, and who are the losers? 

The number one deserved loser is PKR vice-president Tian Chua and his attempt at using the Sulu incursion to smear Barisan Nasional. Against a backdrop of our police offers being killed in the violence, his comments provoked anger that is still being felt now and won’t be forgotten by GE13. 

Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s contribution to this crisis has been to serve his own interests. A recall of Parliament? A roundtable discussion to deal with the events in Sabah? These suggestions were only aimed at boosting Anwar’s perceived importance in a moment of crisis. 

Among the winners is, of course, the standing of our police and armed forces, which is at an all-time high. Leading a prayer in support, Najib said: “Let us pray for their safety and for the country’s enemies to be defeated and eradicated once and for all.” 

Another winner is Malaysia’s international standing. It is easy to say now that we should have opted for military intervention earlier, but seeking a peaceful outcome was in line with international law. If our troops had gone in with all guns blazing after just two days we would have been pilloried by the international community. 

And of course the Prime Minister has won a legion of fans in Sabah, with political analyst Dr Arnold Puyok concluding: “There is no reason why Sabah voters would not want to renew the support (for BN).” 

Najib has been there when the bodies of our slain heroes have been returned; leading prayers, reminding the rakyat of their sacrifice, and offering financial assistance to the widows and their families. 

GE13 won’t be decided by the Sulu incursion. It will be decided on important issues that will shape this nation for the next decade, such as the economy, the reform agenda, and education. 

But this affair has been a chance for our political leaders to show the rakyat what they are made of, and how they have handled themselves throughout this tense and painful time will not be forgotten by voters come GE13. - The Choice

Source: KL Post