"This election will also help determine the fate of many established names in our political arena. Some of them have already passed their shelf life but they still do not willingly accept that verdict. Will new leaders who will make a difference to the country emerge?” It is reassuring that the prime minister, in his usual demeanour of quiet confidence, has declared that he understands democracy. The people’s choice, he says, will ultimately determine which political grouping will rule this country. It is crucial that the rakyat no longer labours over the motive of the Emergency or its effects, since it will end on Aug 1, only five months away. This period of five months is best spent on preparing the country for the general election.