In a few weeks’ time, a momentous event is going to take place which concerns our people, our government, and, equally as important, the individuals who will take the helm as leaders of the governed. With this very important occasion looming in the horizon, it only posits a discussion which pertains to the nature of the event that is about to take place—How important is an election, really?
We live in a mostly democratic world which insinuates that power lies in the majority of people, not to a select few. Although democracy itself is not perfect—and thereby fraught with faults—it had proven itself to be the preferred system under the most ideal conditions. Hence, why many governments the world over had adopted to its scheme. It is in this context where even two unique and heterogeneous nations like Australia and the Philippines may find commonality despite all the diversities.
In a democratic society, the majority vote or mob rule is “king.” Essentially the “voice” of the people represents the wish and desire of a large mixed demographics, typically with the undertone of making change—usually, for the better. If there are a few significant things inherent in the spirit of democracy, they are: wanting the best for everybody and maintaining that everyone’s individual voice counts.
To reiterate, our established democratic system is truly imperfect which results to a slew of potential problematic outcomes. But these latent results are themselves rooted back to the people who themselves are part of the overall decision-making process—the flaw lies in the very people who are participants of the election process. The democratic system is merely a framework which facilitates the outcome, whether it be good or bad.
Now, what does this imply in the country’s up and coming elections and in all elections across the globe in general?
It is to become a wise member of the electorate, one who is kept abreast of all the happenings in politics, especially concerning the people who have the aspirations to hold positions of power that can either be used for good or bad.
Knowing an individual or a political party is paramount as those running for seats; they should represent the interests and common good of the electorate and not just individual or party goals. The track record for service should be scruitinised and the qualification for running for elective positions should be carefully considered. Remember that your one vote does not only determine your own future, but that of the country and of the future generations as well.
Now, while we do not generalise all politicians as “corrupt,” it pays to be vigilant in the assumption that many people are easily swayed with the worldly and thereby stray from the good they originally represented and promised to sustain.
Yet, this is where the power of democracy also comes into good play. If only its participants are well enough informed of the players in its politics, then there is a high chance that intelligent decisions are made. But for this to become a fruition, it would take a prudent population to keep themselves aligned with what is truly good for them which will be reflective on the quality of their vote.
