Dr Kua, I hope you will agree there is a big difference between nepotism in the opposition and that in the ruling party

With due respect to Dr Kua, I think there is a big difference between nepotism in opposition and that in the ruling party, especially in Malaysia. Former opposition leaders had struggled against all kinds of obstacles and it is only now that we can see some fruits of their labour. Being detained and even jailed for fighting against injustice was common even till today, so carrying on the struggle of their fathers is not a bed of roses. Contrast this with nepotism in the ruling party where the families could enrich themselves with impunity.

 The people should be grateful if an opposition leader has children who are willing and passionate about continuing the family tradition of defending justice. He should not be denied the chance to compete with others. What if he happens to be the best known among them? Do we reject him for democracy's sake? We should also think of the chances of winning at the by-election too.

I am referring to Dr Kua's letter to Malaysiakini, For Karpal's sake, no nepotism please...

http://www.malaysiakini.com/letters/262093

I wish to add that the late Karpal Singh might have wished for another son or daughter to take up the fight in the defence of justice, and not as presumed by Dr. Kua. Only if the related person has got what it takes will he or she be elected as people's representative or last till the next election and then get to be re-elected. There are many chances for the public to show their approval or otherwise. Furthermore, it is not too late to discourage nepotism if and when the opposition becomes the ruling coalition, when the appointments to positions of power will be scrutinised by the general public.