As I predicted in my last article, now that an election is imminent our politicians are now well and truly into campaign mode, and everything they do—whether shaking their fists in Parliament or strumming their ukuleles in the lounge rooms—is with this in mind. Whether it is tabling legislation or leaking information, having makeovers or kissing babies, it’s no longer about the day-to-day business of running the country or providing checks and balances as the opposition, it is about getting elected.
Even in more normal times, this would mean the intensity of political discourse going up a notch, and politicians ramping up the attacks on the opposing side, as they not only attempt to convince voters that they are the right choice to lead the nation but that they are the only choice and anyone else would be a disaster.
Free spirits
It’s a reminder that, even at the best of times which the past few years have been anything but, it is very easy for politicians to think first about what is best for their party and their chances of getting re-elected, than what is best for the country. When you are facing an election, it can be tempting to choose a position based on popularity rather than conviction, and worry about getting the votes now rather than the long term effects—especially when it could easily be someone else’s problem.
Fortunately, we have far less of a culture of blind loyalty to the party over anything else than most countries, perhaps because our national identity is built on our belief that our history shows that the Australia character is independent and sceptical of authority. Criticising your own leader’s policies, or crossing the floor on a conscience vote, are just part of the system. And, whether you think the principles that are being upheld, being able to do so is one of our society’s greatest strengths.
We’ve all got to serve somebody
But, no matter how good their intentions, politicians will never be able to only answer to their principles. The nature of their job means that are also answerable to other vested interests. They have to take account the electorate that voted them in, or their party, or their donors. Even if they do stand against them, they always have something that need to take into account before making a stand. That doesn’t mean politicians are necessary wrong or misguided, but it is the reality of the system.
That is why it is so important that we have voices from outside of politics willing to speak up for what they believe in and hold politicians accountable. Because they are not part of the system, all they need to worry about is whether something is wrong or right, not how it will impact the polls. Whether it is charities or churches or protest groups, their first loyalty is to the issues they consider important and bringing about the change that they believe is needed.
Patriots come in many forms
Despite what those in power might sometimes try and argue, criticising the government or our leaders is not unpatriotic or disrespectful. On the contrary, it is one of the best things you can do for your country, to ensure that those who are powerless have a voice, and it is not just the powerful who call the tune.
That’s what makes it a terrible mistake for these voices to become too closely aligned with one particular party or side of politics. No matter how it may seem that one or the other is naturally inclined to take their side, ultimately they serve different masters.
These independent voices need to remain free to praise the policies they agree with, and criticise the ones they don’t. Whether it is the church, or welfare groups, or individuals given a platform where their voice is heard, they lose their greatest strength when they allow themselves to become just another part of the system.