Our nation will soon face another general election— another test of the democratic nature of our polity. As a nation, we will go to the polls and exercise our franchise. It is our privilege to make our voices heard when it counts the most. Election day is not a holiday but a holy day for responsible action. Those who do not exercise their franchise will send unworthy people to the Parliament. With utmost care and due thought, with no room for frivolity, we need to vote fearlessly.

This nation is at a political and economic crossroads. Many senior leaders who stood the test of time and ably led us might slowly make way for new faces and younger leaders. We need able leaders who are called by God to lead such a vast multitude along unfamiliar and difficult roads. We need men and women of rare caliber who will take the difficult decisions that are good for the economy and for the general populace. We need leaders who consider their integrity as their greatest asset, and the nation’s interest as their top priority.

Unfortunately, there are several people who enter politics with inferior and ulterior motives. Under the protection of various political parties, they win and occupy high offices. It is no secret that dozens of our elected representatives in this country have been indicted or even convicted in various civil and criminal cases. It is high time for us to put an end to such vandalism of our political heritage. The Election Commission’s proposal to let people reject all candidates fielded in a constituency needs applause. It is essential for the good people of this country to let the political bigwigs know that voters are not hapless creatures at their mercy. If by negative vote, the citizens of a constituency reject all candidates as unworthy of a high office, that could shake up the way parties field candidates.

Politics makes strange bedfellows. Political expediency might force make political parties to forge new tie-ups disregarding their age-old rivalries and disagreements. When a love for power brings rivals together, such marriages of convenience are not in the interest of the nation. The members of these coalitions restrict themselves to a “common minimum program” instead of maximising the opportunities for the nation’s progress. We should therefore discourage such immoral power-hungry coalitions of rival political parties.

No government ever comes to power just by the will of a majority of people. The God of heaven and earth lifts up one and casts down another. In spite of all backroom political drama, those chosen by the Almighty to rule will come to power. It is therefore our privilege to be partners with God in this holy endeavour.