An opposition in disarray

Jose Luis Alcuaz has beaten a hasty retreat after what he admitted was a "tactical error" in calling for a noise barrage against the government. Senate Minority Leader Teofisto Guingona called for President Estrada's resignation -- only to find himself all by his lonesome in the chamber, with his Senate party mates refusing to endorse his call. The Lakas-NUCD is a headless chicken, ineffective in the opposition's task of providing checks and balances to the administration.

Disunity was the same problem that afflicted the anti-Estrada forces in the 1998 elections. Refusing to unite against an immensely popular former movie superstar, the opposition fielded too many candidates, dividing the votes while Joseph Estrada kept his mass base intact. Now the same anti-Estrada forces are as fragmented as ever, with everyone wanting to be the leader. Worse, some opposition members are even hitting each other. A third force is supposed to be emerging, but no one is sure who's joining forces with whom.

It's a pity because there are many things wrong with this administration that need the vigilance of a credible opposition. It's not enough to accuse the administration of corruption, cronyism and abuse of power; there must be enough proof to convince the public that friends and relatives of those in power are getting special favors from government. The opposition can also engage in constructive criticism, watching out for breakdowns in the delivery of basic services, keeping the administration on its toes.

Today, the Lakas-NUCD is meeting to consolidate its ranks and make the party speak with one voice. It will also have to decide who is leading the main opposition party. Vice President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who appears to be enjoying her position in the Cabinet, is a reluctant opposition leader and Lakas member. Lakas will also have to decide if it should merge with other parties. Opposition unity is needed, not necessarily to overthrow this government -- which won a convincing mandate in free elections -- but to ensure good governance.