During my secondary studies, my views could be expressed only if the teacher picked me during class lessons. Those that raise their views without permission were considered rude and were punished. This is the somewhat similar to PAP in the days of Francis Seow. Ministers were merely “yes men.”

If there is no public debate ( that is unfettered) then the line between political interests and national interest can be blurred.

btw only just discovered this blog, very interesting posts

The ONLY REASON why UMNO is trying to “buck up” is precisely due to the electorate voting in the opposition to deny the ruling party 1/3 majority.

Malaysians are not stupid. They do not expect their lives to be improved overnight by voting in the Opposition.

Hopefully enough Singaporeans can see the light – the only way to make the ruling party listen to the cries of the people is to vote in the Opposition in sufficient numbers to make it count.

How can the Opposition “put forward viable alternatives” if we do not let them grow to form an alternative government ? Instead the incumbent thinks of ways to “fix” them.

Isn’t voting for the PAP based on past performance not another form of “blind faith” ?

I am doing it because I am experiencing a “dose of incompetent government”.

That’s what woke me from “apathy”.

So, Simplicity, to use your analogy, from my POV its OK to turn to another salesman to see what there is but just make sure one is not choosing the other salesman without careful consideration of what there is as an alternative product. If there is a good alternative product, fine. If not – then well…..Having a good sales pitch without a good actual alternative may not result in a happier customer. One example is Malaysia. It certainly is a more politically exciting and diverse place now but I just wish Anwar & the gang have more to offer than just good speeches and political rhetoric. UMNO needs to buck up but I haven’t seen the lives of people in the states that chose the opposition as having changed for the better due to the change in party. Once you choose something then you will have to live with the consequences. And in some sales, the sales pitch and product look good now but the after-sales service doesn’t work out well, and the product starts to crumble (can go both ways, opposition & ruling party).

As for others who are just venting, well, have fun in your monologues. If you are unable to participate meaningfully in this discussion, I do not have to engage you (as I have said to someone else before).

Do you keep sticking to the same salesman who cheats your money and are rude to you? If you then turn to another salesman who you think is worth a try, is that blind faith and care less attitude?