How Guan Eng can win the RM2.8m argument

Ambiga is right; the CM should consider going on leave. Proof of innocence will mark him as a man of principles.

COMMENT

In the eyes of many people, the argument over Lim Guan Eng’s purchase of a bungalow for RM2.8 million appears somewhat overblown.

The people in BN have been gleefully pointing to it as an example of the kind of corruption that former Selangor menteri besar Khir Toyo was found guilty of. They have been reminding the public of the crucifixion that Khir had to endure, implying, no doubt, that it’s time for revenge.

Many will agree that the comparison is outrageous. Comparing Khir’s palatial mansion – complete with a helipad and a swimming pool – to Guan Eng’s upper-middle-class house will raise eyebrows even among those opposed to the CM.

Nonetheless, former Bersih chief S Ambiga is right in asking Guan Eng to consider going on leave until the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission completes its investigation into the purchase.

Yes, BN does not follow such a practice, but Guan Eng must show that he is a man who is true to his principles. Our opposition politicians should be the first to act in accordance with the reforms they demand. Pakatan has frequently called for public officials under probe to take leave from office until investigations are over. Leadership by example is wholly more powerful than fire and thunder from the pulpit, and Guan Eng has a chance to lead here.

In taking leave from his position as Chief Minister of Penang, Guan Eng gains the moral high ground. He will show that he’s a public servant who’s willing to be accountable and to be tested. Many believe that he is indeed innocent of corruption in this case. If this is proven through the MACC investigation, he will resume his position as a paragon of integrity and accountability.

The exoneration might even go a long way towards repairing his image. Of late, some of his decisions and actions have made him appear reactionary at best and dictatorial at worst.

What better way could there be for Guan Eng to juxtapose his conduct against that of BN leaders than to seize this opportunity not only to show that he stands by his principles but also to prove that he is indeed clean of the stain of corruption?

Guan Eng could come out of this clearly as a man of principles. But beyond that, there are the principles themselves. We are ready for leaders who live up to their words, who show the willingness to come under fire because they know their record can stand up to scrutiny. Leaders must lead, and Guan Eng is now presented with the opportunity to show that he’s a true leader.