The Pastoral Letter - Towards The 2009 Elections

TOWARDS THE 2009 ELECTIONS We have learned much in the years since we adopted multiparty democracy and yet sometimes it appears as if we did not learn enough. All citizens must be enabled to participate in the decisions that affect their lives. As we are preparing for the forthcoming Elections, this is an ideal occasion to do soul-searching on how our democracy is functioning. What role do the many people in our rural areas play in the decisions and programes that affect their lives? In how far do they experience ‘representative democracy’ as a way for them to live dignified lives? Are the members of parliament living up to our expectations? Are they present to their electorate in the constituency? Are the transparent and accountable to the electorate? Are they able or obligated to consciously pay back the debts (loans) they may owe the nation, which ordinarily they ought to get through the banks? Do political parties have sound programs that can improve our standards of living or are they just concentrating on getting into power? Are political parties internally democratic? Do the leaders of the parties and government have a capacity to listen and to act on advice coming from other circles including the church? Elections re-enkindle in us some of thee questions since through elections we choose leaders, who can best serve the country and it people. We choose them as our representatives and they hold their offices in trust. Elections remind the voters of their power to change things in a democracy. This is why it is imperative that periodically people are allowed to choose leaders at various levels: the President, Members of Parliament, and Councillors. Election time is for electorate one of the privileged moments in the democratic process. The following elements are crucial as we prepare for 2009 Elections FAVOURABLE DEMOCRATIC CLIMATE In a free nation and particularly in times of elections we need a climate that allows for the greatest possible participation of the largest number of citizens. In addition to the previous pastoral letters that we have dedicated to democracy we want to mention some of the highlights that make for a favourable democratic climate. INTRA PARTY DEMOCRACY Within our political parties, the Party constitution and the leaders have to provide ways and means to make it possible for all members to participate fully and give aspirants the opportunity to freely contest for key positions. What is are some of the following: - A party manifesto ....