Recently, a reader of a newspaper had suggested that politicians should face an examination to assess their degree of suitability. The idea, though novel, does not attract me; for leakage of question papers is a real snag. Favouritism and tampering with marks cannot be entirely ruled out. But one cannot deceive one's conscience - that is, where there is one. Even if one does, he will be exposed some time. Besides, having done so, how can he die in peace?
Considering all of the above, we ventured to evolve a questionnaire for self-evaluation of politicians, and would-be politicians. The responses are simply either YES or NO, as the respondent genuinely feels.
1. I am suitable to do politics because:
(a) I have a genuine love for my country and its people;
(b) I have had a practical education that has given me a realistic view of
society;
(c) I have empathy which makes me sensitive to the feelings of others;
(d) I behave in a decent manner;
(e) I have humility;
(f) I have experience in working with the rural poor.
2. I am less wealthy today, than when I began my political career.
3. After election to office, I think as a national; and not as a party
member.
4. I interpret election to office as an appointment to serve.
5. My wants are few.
6. Although I think independently, I always value other people's opinions.
7. I will readily accept my own mistakes.
8. I have never been connected with or supportive of any crime.
9. Either in anticipation of votes, or in the course of my work, I NEVER:
(a) Utter an untruth;
(b) Do harm, or anything unjust/unfair;
(c) Derogate opponents;
(d) Refrain from saying what I think;
(e) Abstain from doing what I say;
(f) Boast of my "doings";
(g) Give false promises;
(h) Forget promises with impunity.
10. The day I am out of politics, I have training/job/vocation on which to
fall back.
The items stated above are not ten commandments. They are 22 factors on which the respondent is assessed.
The possible responses are either YES or NO. If a respondent were to say YES to all 22 items, at the rate of 5 marks per item, he will total 110. But then, look sharp; he cannot be among the living. We have not come across such people!
Those obtaining 100 marks are the really great, worthy of the highest respect. Those with 80-100 could be accepted, just because of the acute shortage of those scoring higher.
If you are below 75, well, that is not your fault. It is OUR misfortune.
Is there no limit to the price increases? "Sky is the limit" said an old pensioner, more in sorrow than in anger, as it is mostly the drugs trade that the manufacturers are exploiting. The old pensioners, who do not get adequate pensions and who have one leg in the grave, are badly hit by the enormous increase in the price of drugs which they have to take daily to keep body and soul together by preventing the aches and pains and diseases of dotage.
Even at this stage, let the Government fulfill one of its election pledges, and at least keep under control the rising prices by enacting legislation to decree that increase in the price of any commodity should have the prior approval of the Commissioner of Internal Trade. Increasing salaries, wages and pensions would be a remedy worse than the disease because it creates a vicious circle in that the manufacturers would say that they cannot be expected to run their business at a profit unless the prices are kept in tune with the increase of salaries etc.
May I write a few words about the bus service? Bus fares have not been increased for a long time. You cannot expect a whisky service on a toddy budget, with the result that the service is deteriorating more and more, and the commuters are suffering untold hardship. Nevertheless, it is not fair by the general taxpayers to give subsidies from the Consolidated Fund to the bus owners to improve the service, thereby avoiding any unpopularity to Government. Therefore allow a little increase in bus fares with a warning to the bus owners that no more increases would be allowed unless they improve the service. The Police should be instructed to see that no mechanically unsatisfactory buses are put on the road.
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