Opposition's heartening change of stance

The government has had a walkover so far, because the opposition gave it to them. To our mind, an oppressive majoritarian culture could spread its tentacles into sensitive areas of national life largely because the opposition absenteeism in parliament was cashed in on by the ruling party. In the essence, it's the AL's overall attitude of resignation and escapism that gave a free rein to the government party -- in terms of lawmaking and meeting the requirements of transparency and accountability.

That the opposition is regarded everywhere as a shadow government and an alternative voice is something we have very nearly forgotten but for a little hope for restitution being kindled through the opposition's latest decision to play an assertive role in parliament. Given the government's failed track-record, there is no end to the agenda the opposition can take up and articulate by way of exposing debacles of governance and forcing the government to answer for their actions, or inaction.

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Given our political culture, there may be a pejorative imputation of motive by some incurable critics to the effect that the AL has joined parliament only to protect its membership; but the opposition will be well-advised not to be provoked thereby.

Just as it is potentially a major shift in opposition outlook, so it must also be a sea-change on the part of the government to end their penchant for opposition-bashing. The opposition needs to be treated with respect and attention, more so in a delicately balanced situation as we are. The government party has never tired of assuring the opposition of adequate time in parliament to have their say. It is absolutely necessary the government redeem its pledge.

We urge both sides to give parliament a chance.