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Polls violence and role models

The increasing election-related violence which has now reportedly reached unprecedented proportions is proof of the intensifying hunger for power among the majority of those contesting the December 5th general election. The rising death toll is indicative of the savagery which is being let loose in total disregard of civilised norms of behaviour. The peace-loving, silent majority is shamed by this barbaric spectacle. When will the voice of sanity be heeded?

We have time and again called on political leaders and organisers to display a greater sense of responsibility in the conduct of a peaceful poll. It is our belief that political sympathisers and supporters take the cue from their leaders in these matters. If political leaders and organisers display irresponsible and violent behaviour, their followers cannot be expected to be law-abiding and peaceful in their conduct. Unfortunately, not all politicians are guided by these ideals of conduct and very little, therefore, could be expected of their followers.

The current wave of polls-related violence could, therefore, be regarded as an index to the degree to which political leaders and organisers have failed the people. For, it is plain to see that violence-marred elections place a huge question mark over the legitimacy of the final polls result and this situation would be in no one's interest. A violence-hit election, in short, makes the country a loser and disgraces it in the eyes of the world.

We hope politicians in the fray would keep these home truths in their hearts and minds. By succumbing to intolerant, criminal behaviour they only undermine the national interest. We, therefore, join our voices with those pleading with politicians and their supporters, even at this late hour, for a peaceful poll which the country could be proud of. We find it encouraging that religious and business leaders are voicing their concern over the violence and it is our hope that more and more voices of concern will be added to their list. Needless to say, political leaders should be chief among these.

We also call on every public servant in this country, whether high or low, to do their duty without fear or favour. The law, in particular, should be both stringently and impartially enforced and only duty conscious officials could measure-up to this important challenge. We appeal to these public servants to be shining examples of fearlessness and justice in these trying times. They could be certain that their exemplary conduct would be emulated by their countrymen who are thirsting for models of morality and good conduct. May this profound yearning of the people be met in the days ahead.

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