Political Integrity and the Push for a Fair Election.

No One Should Carry the Election.
Wednesday, March 5, 2025

It is encouraging to witness political parties, from the ruling party to opposition groups, strengthen their commitment to conducting a free and fair election.

This optimism arises from recent statements made by party leaders, condemning candidates who engage in bribery and manipulation.

Unlike previous elections, the rhetoric from political leaders heading into this year's general election suggests a promising path toward fairness and transparency.

In the past, there were frequent complaints from opposition parties. Their candidates lamented that members of the ruling party would boast about their guaranteed victory, stating they could win even if they fielded a stone as a candidate.

What was even more concerning was hearing from certain individuals within the ruling party that no matter who was nominated, their party would win the election. Since the results typically favored them, these claims seemed justified.

Such behavior deeply eroded the confidence of opposition parties. We witnessed leaders from opposition parties defecting to the ruling party, often blamed on "temptation" by the government, which resulted in the loss of constituencies and a reduced presence in the legislature.

Additionally, we saw loyal opposition supporters abandoning their parties and flocking to the ruling party in hopes of securing a victory in their constituencies.

This was primarily driven by the perception that success was guaranteed within the unbreakable framework of the ruling party.

However, the ongoing remarks from leaders within the ruling party are shedding light on a new era of free and fair elections.

These leaders have spoken out against corruption in the election process, urging candidates to rely on their own merits rather than relying on party backing.

Candidates are being urged to strengthen their standing within communities, earning the trust of voters through their service. Perhaps this marks a new chapter in the book of democratic elections.

However, there are still signs of growing confusion as we approach the general election.

Following the crackdown on corruption and manipulation, candidates are now aggressively seeking ways to raise funds from the public.

Mandatory contributions are already being demanded from small business groups and boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) operators to ease the campaign efforts of certain candidates. This is essentially a form of bribery, even though those contributing may be unaware of their involvement.

While it is undisputed that the safety and security of citizens and their property are paramount, it is equally crucial to address the rise of illegal fundraising activities.

People are being apprehended and taken to local offices, where they are threatened with imprisonment if they refuse to contribute to campaign funds.

Such actions suggest that a few opportunistic leaders are trying to secure power by resorting to underhanded tactics.

When we heard leaders pledge to "carry themselves," there was hope that a level playing field would emerge. We believed that voters would be able to assess candidates based on their true abilities, not the financial power of their parties.

However, those who are coercing citizens into making contributions on the streets are clearly hiding behind the government, using its power to illegally raise funds.

The main problem with individuals who lack leadership skills is their reliance on force. They seem to believe that money can overcome all obstacles and enable them to achieve anything.

Corruption has clouded their thinking, and many of them are now incapable of presenting meaningful arguments to voters.

Any leader who is mentally incapable believes they cannot win a seat without offering bribes.

This is because they recognize that they lack influence through hard work, fulfillment of promises, or a strong history that could sway voters.

Even in discussions, there is a marked difference between those who boast about their accomplishments and those who analyze systems for development.

The government must be cautious of these individuals who treat it as a tool to manipulate the public in order to achieve their own goals.

Ultimately, the government will be blamed for these unlawful actions.

It is a crime, just like any other illegal act occurring in the streets, and it should be dealt with accordingly.

For instance, during the unlawful raids in neighborhoods, the perpetrators may extort money from the detainees, who may wrongly believe that this is part of a government-backed initiative.

The police force, too, would be implicated for breaking the law and violating the constitution. Meanwhile, the wrongdoers would have taken refuge behind the government’s shield. If the government fails to take action against these criminals, it risks losing the trust of the public. This can lead to disastrous consequences, as we have seen happening in other parts of the world.

We do not need conflict in our country—what is happening next door is already keeping us awake at night.

What we truly need is to put food on our table and thank God for the blessings. Everything else can be left to the experts.

To all those seeking votes, carry yourselves with integrity and not with the pride of your party. Learn to be self-reliant, for that is how we all survive in our communities.

A mother’s cloak ends the moment you begin to walk on your own—so tighten your shoelaces and move forward!