By P Mohan Chandran
Political theatre often seems like an endless spectacle. Lured by the charisma of the actors, we, the audience, get swept up in a whirlwind of promises and grand plans. The stage is set during the election period, the promises are grand, and the actors, our politicians, often paint a picture of an ideal world that would enthrall any audience. Yet, behind this impressive facade of electoral promises, there lies an unnerving reality – the grand ride that often ends in disappointment and disillusionment.
Many a time, the electoral manifesto is adorned with glittering promises of freebies. These range from tangible gifts such as laptops, bicycles, and tablets, to more intangible ones like tax cuts and subsidies. The audience, wooed by these immediate and tangible benefits, often overlooks the hidden price tags attached to them. For these ‘freebies’ aren’t truly free, and the price is often paid through indirect channels, leaving the common man more impoverished than before.
Veiled under the name of ‘public welfare schemes,’ many of these promises materialize into nothing but elaborate schemes of corruption. The cost of these promised freebies gets recouped through inflated prices in other public welfare schemes, a cunning recovery mechanism that seldom reaches public scrutiny.
And so, we are taken for a grand ride, sometimes willingly, sometimes unknowingly. The short-term allure of these promises blinds us to the long-term consequences. As the adage goes, "Wise men plant trees under whose shade they know they will never sit." However, it seems in the political landscape, it’s the immediate shade of short-term promises that often captivate the public eye.
Election time also witnesses the disgraceful practice of trading votes for free liquor and meals. Such practices not only belittle the sanctity of the democratic process but also exploit the vulnerability of the economically disadvantaged. As electorates, we must realize that by succumbing to these manipulative tactics, we gamble not only with our future but also with the future of generations yet unborn.
So, how can we navigate this political maze without being taken for a ride? Firstly, the public must remember that their vote is not a mere token but a powerful tool, a catalyst for change. A strong democracy rests on the vigilant shoulders of its citizens. Electorates should scrutinize the credibility of politicians and their proposed policies meticulously. Look beyond the freebies and promises. Ask the tough questions.
Secondly, the public should emphasize transparency and accountability. Politicians must be held accountable for their electoral promises. Initiatives such as public forums, town hall meetings, and interactive Q&A sessions could serve as a platform for this dialogue.
Thirdly, voter turnout is crucial. The wisdom in the adage, “Bad officials are elected by good citizens who do not vote,” has never been more relevant. Every eligible voter should exercise their franchise responsibly. Abstaining from voting allows room for mediocrity and incompetence to thrive.
Thus, the spirit of democracy lies in the empowerment of its people. We, the electorates, are the true lords of democracy, and our votes are the lifeblood that fuels its heart. By falling for short-term gains, we risk losing sight of our long-term rights, benefits, and privileges. Let's take charge, question, and demand accountability. Let's educate ourselves about the power of our votes and choose leaders who genuinely serve the interests of the public. It's time we stop being the passive audience in this political theatre and start directing the narrative for a better tomorrow.
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© 2023. P Mohan Chandran. All Rights Reserved.
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