Editor's Note - Issue 2004:3

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This is a special issue on the 2004 General Election. In the lead story, Philip Khoo probes how a brave new era of accountability and of �xcellence, glory and distinction� is to be achieved when the BN so overwhelmingly dominates Parliament. Where is the counterweight?

The back cover story by Wong Kok Keong discusses the Pak Lah factor, the carefully cultivated image of a caring and concerned leader. While agreeing that the Pak Lah factor is significant, Francis Loh reminds us of the Mahathir legacy of coercive laws, a compromised SPR and the courts as well as developmentalism.

This election was marred by numerous irregularities and even disorder. Ramdas Tikamdas scrutinises the flawed performance of the SPR.

G Lim discusses the elections in Sabah, which the BN won hands down. A Semenanjung-style of coalition politics dominated by UMNO has replaced the frequent changes in government of the past.

Raja Petra Kamarudin says Keadilan has to do more than just dream if it wants to achieve its ambition of coming into power.

Toh Kin Woon shares insights on why he succeeded in retaining his Machang Bubuk seat under a BN ticket. On the other hand, Passenger shares her bitter-sweet campaign experiences for the opposition in the much-watched Sungai Siput contest.

In the aftermath of the election, Charles Hector reminds us that elected representatives should remember that they now represent all Malaysians. Andrew Aeria, touched by the love between the PM and his wife, Endon, calls on him to think also of the spouses of those still detained or jailed.