People and leaders alike must be held accountable

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Growing up, I often heard the phrase “handouts” in relation to politicians, believing that the root of our societal issues lay solely with them. However, as I’ve matured and gained a deeper understanding of our political landscape, I’ve come to realise that the problem is more complex. The crux of the issue lies not just in the actions of our leaders, but in the expectations of the people they serve.

Many people seem to prioritise immediate gratification over sustainable development. They often demand quick fixes – cash handouts and short-term benefits – rather than supporting initiatives that would promote long-term community growth. This expectation places our politicians in a challenging position; while many want to foster sustainable change, they often find themselves catering to the immediate needs of their constituents during election cycles.

It’s important to acknowledge that some people embody the very issues we face as a nation. We create high expectations of our leaders, which is certainly necessary for accountability. However, we must also hold ourselves accountable, as some of us contribute to the very problems that hinder our progress. Without a shift in public perception and understanding of what sustainable development truly entails, we risk perpetuating a cycle of dependency on fleeting solutions.

It is essential for us, as a people, to educate ourselves about the significance of long-term planning and development. We must encourage our leaders to focus on initiatives that benefit us all in the long run, rather than succumbing to the pressures of immediate demands.

We need to unite in advocating for a mindset that values sustainable progress. Only then can we hold our politicians accountable for meaningful change that truly benefits our communities.

AMANDA SLEW