MUCH has been written in the press about incumbents in parliament who say they want to serve another term as elected representatives, although subject to the blessing of the prime minister.

The self-renewal process of political leaders cannot take place if longstanding incumbents do not want to make way for new blood. Incumbents whose service records are poor and who are sick should make way for young and energetic new leaders in the polls.

I hope party leaders only select candidates who are educated, selfless and willing to work hard to improve the living standards of their constituents.

Inefficient incumbents must be shown the door in the polls.

HAMDAN IBRAHIM, Kuala Lumpur

Source: NST – February 1, 2008