SYED NADZRI hit the nail on the head when he wrote that for most of our political leaders, especially our cabinet ministers, the median age is around 59 years (”Learn the art of the graceful exit” - NST, Feb 5).

Renewal in our political landscape can only occur if the old timers make way for the young in the coming polls.

At present, we only have two cabinet members who were born after independence while the majority of the populace is made up of the young and educated.

Gone are the days when a candidate from the ruling parties could win seats easily by just waving the flags of the party they represent. Voters are more discreet and candidates whose track records are good will be returned to office in the coming polls.

I hope those who have overstayed their welcome, both in the ruling coalition and the opposition, will make way for others and retire graciously, as otherwise they may be dumped by voters who want younger people to represent them in parliament.

HAMDAN IBRAHIM, Kuala Lumpur

Source: NST – February 14, 2008