A Reluctant Politician – Wan Azizah

Not all, but many people will miss Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail in the Parliament.

At the beginning, she had no choice but to join politics in the 1999 general elections for the hope of his husband and the reputation of her family.

She was a reluctant politician. She made it clear that she was doing so for her husband.

The people were not optimistic about the political life of such a woman who was moderate, shy and looked weak. In particular, she was caught in difficult situations most of the time over the past 10 years as PKR faced internal disputes and suffered great loss in the general elections while her husband was imprisoned.

She had to bear all the pressures and hardships but she managed to walk through the tests.

As a wife and a mother, she is absolutely competent and as a politician, she actually did well too.

She is soft but strong like a magnolia. She looks beautiful and frail but in fact, she is resolute and steadfast. Her impartiality and care helped her to win support and respect in the party.

The people can still remember the moment when the first female opposition leader reprimanded the Prime Minister's son-in-law in the Parliament. Some also hope that she can be the first woman prime minister.

However, the wish is temporarily, or forever not achievable. After she resigned and stepped aside for her husband, she can no longer contest for any parliamentary seat for at least five years.

Even if she keeps the party presidency, it would be a temporary measure. She will let it go once Anwar or any other leader is ready to take over.

She was really a reluctant politician at first. But once she took over the position, she naturally bore the responsibility and courageously moved forward.

Until the time has come when she has completed her tasks, she is perfectly happy to let go her power and status and let her husband, whom she thinks is more capable, to carry on.

She would rather to be an ordinary dutiful wife and loving mother. It is just that simple.

I do not agree with those who believe her resignation has in fact disappointed voters and violated the principles of democracy. She already made herself clear at the beginning that she is not a lifelong politician. She let it to the voters to decide whether to vote for her.

Moreover, the by-election has indirectly allowed the voters to make a major decision. Let's leave it to the Permatang Pauh's voters to decide whether it is right or wrong. (By TAY TIAN YAN/ Translated by SOONG PHUI JEE/ Sin Chew Daily)