The half-decade that followed independence for Malaysia has been marked by poor governance, given that the multi-party Barisan Nasional (BN) has effectively ruled as a one-party system.

In saying this, constitutional law expert Abdul Aziz Bari cited such problems as implementation of arbitrary policies and prevalence of laws that reduce the space for democracy, such as the Societies Act and Police Act.

Without a significant opposition to give it due challenge, the BN government has been pretty much able to rule as it pleases, he told Malaysiakini.

NONE"A two-party system is needed, if we are to fix the many failures in our governance. We actually have quite a good constitutional framework for governance, but it is not working as we have a government that is not committed to its ideals," he said,

Abdul Bari (right), a university professor and political analyst, also pointed to the failure of such institutions as the public service (including the military and police force) and judiciary in facilitating the democratic process.

It is common knowledge that most public and government institutions, including commissions such as the Election Commission , now take their cue from the executive.

"The executive or the government of the day is playing too large a role in the (administration of the country), with most decisions, including the appointment of judges, in its hands".

"What happened during the judicial crisis in the 1980s and in Perak early this year bear testimony to this.

"We have also seen how state governments led by Pakatan Rakyat are put in a position where it is simply very difficult for them to deliver. This will continue if the present regime remains in power."

The 'redistribution' of oil royalties to Kelantan and 'assault' on the Selangor government and its representatives are among examples of this.

Why change is crucial

Abdul Aziz said a two-party system is important "to allow the people to have an alternative" to the current administrative system.

Such a system would strengthen the notion of responsible government which stands at the very heart of the cabinet system and Westminster-type of government, he said.

"At the very least, the existence of a strong leader of the opposition and a substantial shadow cabinet would force the sitting government to face a rigorous process of accountability, as required by Article 43(3) of the federal constitution.

"At (the other extreme), it would allow for a regime change. This is crucial in order for us to bring back the (governance) system envisaged by the constitution and ensure that good policies and practices are put into play."

This, he added, would allow the constitutional system to deliver the goods as demanded by the people.