Zaid's tantrums: Missing the bigger picture?

It is said that in times of trouble, when adversities are faced, one's true character is revealed. During these particular hard times, the true scope and depth of human nature is revealed. Zaid Ibrahim, in the last few months has shown a character flaw in his personality which unfortunately hurts all those closely associated with him.

When Zaid joined Keadilan, many had believed that a man of his stature and prominence would be able to contribute to the growth and professionalism of Keadilan. However, it became apparent that this man was not much of a team player. He had his own ideas but rather than subjecting it to counsel and leadership, he began to sulk and murmur against his colleagues in the party. All of us have a superior, somebody we are accountable too.

Zaid would have been accountable to Keadilan's leaders and the central committee. In the end, for the sake of the party, there has to be some sort of order - there has to be a submission to the leadership. You can agree to disagree but causing dissent and disunity shows a gross lack of character.

Zaid's recent rantings and tantrum against Keadilan and the top leadership shows a man who lacks self control when things don't go his way. It is clear that the opposition wants the position of federal government.

To do this, the opposition is fighting a very real and unreasonable enemy. Causing dissent and publicly destroying what the Pakatan Rakyat leaders have done, shows a deep disrespect for individuals who have for decades literally given their lives. Individuals like Lim Kit Siang, Anwar Ibrahim and Hadi Awang and many others have gone to jail for what they believe in.

These individuals were tested; they can be trusted because of their resolve. In their persecutions, which include beatings, solitary confinement and harsh persecutions by the ruling elite, they have persevered. Therefore, asking Anwar Ibrahim to leave Keadilan is not only rude but disrespectful of the years of contribution and sacrifice which he and the other individuals in Pakatan Rakyat have made. I am not a personality worshipper but I recognise true character and those tested by time.

It has become evident that Zaid, you have been tested with adversity and hard times and it has revealed some character flaws in your life. In your desire to see a free Malaysia and a more democratic Malaysia; you have arrogantly pushed everyone else aside believing that you are the only man with the right idea to see this to fruition. Unfortunately this is further from the truth.

It would redeem your character if you would now in humility step aside in silence without falsely portraying that the party that took you in is in utter disarray and at the verge of breaking up. The party itself, unlike you, have been through adversities after adversities and it only becomes stronger and stronger. Her resolve to build a better tomorrow for all Malaysians and to provide a New Hope will soon become a reality with or without you.

- Malaysiakini