As citizens, we often look to our leaders to ensure that we have access to the resources we need to live fulfilling lives. In theory, politics and governance are about resource mobilization and equitable distribution, but in practice, this is often not the case.
One of the key goals of public sector governance should be to maximize happiness for citizens. However, too often we see leaders who are more concerned with their own agendas or with maintaining their grip on power. The concept of “I lead, you follow” is outdated and unproductive. Instead, great leaders inspire people to attain their potentials and work together towards a common goal.
Unfortunately, we too often see examples of leaders who mobilize “boys” to hijack ballot boxes or engage in other forms of political radicalism and dramatization. This kind of behaviour is not only unethical, but it is also counterproductive. To truly move forward as a society, we need leaders who are committed to driving development against all odds.
This is particularly important in areas where basic resources like healthcare facilities are lacking. It is unacceptable that our parents and grandparents, who have worked hard and sacrificed so much for us, do not have access to the basic care they need. We owe it to them to demand better from our leaders and to hold them accountable when they fail to deliver.
If we truly want to create a better future for ourselves and for our children, we need to redefine what we mean by politics and governance. We need to reject the idea that politics is a game to be won at all costs and instead focus on building a society that works for everyone.
It’s true that other parts of the world are developing at a rapid pace, while we seem to be stuck in a cycle of poverty and underdevelopment. However, we have the resources and the potential to change this. We just need leaders who are willing to take bold action and prioritize the needs of their citizens over their own political ambitions.
We need to reject the old-fashioned idea that politics is about power struggles and instead focus on building a society that maximizes happiness and wellbeing for all. We owe it to ourselves and to future generations to redefine what we mean by politics and governance and to hold our leaders accountable when they fail to deliver.
Revisiting my earlier thoughts.
Sir (Dr) Leesi Gabriel Gborogbosi
