How can an UMNO change, and change drastically

Umno needs in order to keep relevant — if it is still the same kind of intelligence that drives its leadership today compared with a decade ago?

One such intelligence is accurate self-assessment. Among the skills involved in this intelligence is the ability to be open to candid feedback and new perspectives. Another emotional intelligence Goleman cites is self-confidence, which manifests itself in people who have the courage to speak up and "go out on a limb for what is right."

There are others, but I am struck by how lacking Umno's leadership is in these two intelligences. This cannot bode well for the party. As pointed out, citing numerous reliable studies conducted in the US, more than anything else, it is emotional intelligence that determines how successful an individual or organisation is in the long run. This is especially more so during the often stressful times of crisis and change.

The majority of Malaysians, including I, are not members of Umno. But our destinies in this country are directly linked to what Umno does or doesn't do for so long as it is the dominant party in government. For a long time after the general election of 8 March 2008, many of us waited with bated breath for signs that Umno would reform. Unfortunately, we have only been offered the same-old

Umno now is selling change and reform in its political business. However, to what extent and how genuine is the change?

Umno is the only one to answer the question and make its own choice. Just like any other business, Umno should learn how to accept mistakes and learn from their mistakes in the business of politics.

Umno should refrain from making the same fatal error in executing its political duty and political business. Instead,Umno should walk the talk.

It will be a zero change if Umno still sticks to the thought that they will win by utilising institutions such as the police, MACC, Election Commission, the courts to grab power.

The media and right-thinking people will not shut their mouths and sit down quietly should Umno still descend to gutter politics by forced solutions.

If Najib puts old wine in new jug, Umno will be wasting everybody's time, including its own.

The people will have final say in the next general election.The word change will remain unchanged.

We have seen it all before. When Mahathir ruled, it was "Bersih, Cekap dan Amanah" and the country went to the dogs.

Next, it was Abdullah Badawi's "Cemerlang, Gemilang, Terbilang" and the country went into the longkang.

Well it déjà vu all over again. Najib's 1Malaysia jingle?

Umno is like a drug addict who knows his addiction is damaging his health and may kill him someday but is powerless to stop.

We can help the drug addict to stop by throwing him into jail for a bout of cold turkey treatment. So must Umno be thrown out of power before it can reform its addiction to money and power.

26/08/09

No comments: