This is why it does not really matter whether Barisan Nasional or Pakatan Rakyat is in power. Don't be naive to think that Pakatan Rakyat politicians won't abuse their power when they form the next Malaysian government, because they will if there are no proper checks and balances in place.

The more important issue is that we, the rakyat, must demand from our elected representatives a proper separation of powers between the executive, legislature, judiciary and media.

This independence is crucially needed in order to check and balance the activities of Malaysian politicians. The rakyat must always be vigilant and keep looking over the shoulders of Malaysian politicians, regardless of party, to ensure that they are doing what they promised to do.

No checks, no balance and guess what? Look at the past 22 years and you have the answer.

This is why first and foremost, the ISA must be abolished. The ISA is currently being used as a political tool to shut up the opponents of those in power.

If we, the rakyat, do not demand for the abolition of the ISA, who is to say that Pakatan Rakyat politicians won't continue to use this draconian law when they come to power?

Do we really want our children to grow up shackled by the ISA's chains of fear? Do we want our children to inherit a Zimbabwe or Myanmar?

Malaysians can never be free until ISA is abolished. Once and for all, in 2009, speak UP, Malaysia and tell the corrupt politicians in power: ISA goes or you go!