Price of loyalty: Abuse of power?
The Star Malaysia · Jahaberdeen M. Yunoos ·
When political survival matters more than principles.
ONE of the things that has always troubled me about politics is how easily people change their principles depending on who is in power. Conduct that was loudly condemned when committed by a previous government suddenly becomes defensible when the same people find themselves supporting the government of the day. Even more disturbing is how readily intelligent and otherwise decent people participate in this political hypocrisy.
This becomes particularly dangerous when the issue concerns abuse of power, because its consequences extend far beyond the politicians involved. It affects the quality of governance, the integrity of public institutions, economic confidence and, ultimately, the health of our democracy. Unfortunately, these consequences are not always immediately apparent, making it easier for politicians to explain away questionable conduct and for their supporters to accept such explanations.
What exactly constitutes abuse of power? Broadly speaking, it occurs when a person entrusted with authority exercises that authority improperly, arbitrarily or for purposes inconsistent with those for which it was conferred. It is not confined to corruption or financial misconduct. It may include protecting political allies, punishing opponents, interfering with independent institutions, manipulating administrative processes or exercising otherwise lawful powers for improper purposes.
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