By Shalini Soorya
If you have been discouraged by the last two years of political confusion, let me lead with this:
“The good news, to relieve all this gloom, is that a democracy is inherently self-correcting. Here, the people are sovereign. Inept political leaders can be replaced. Foolish policies can be changed. Disastrous mistakes can be reversed.” – TC Sorenson.
It may not feel like much, especially given how much of effort and optimistic energy was poured into the ballots in 2018. Despite the aftermath, the fact remains that we made our voices heard. Collectively we made a choice and it reflected a mature, discerning nation.
Often, change is driven through smaller, consistent actions that one grand gesture. If we refuse to exercise our right to choose for ourselves and the upcoming generation, it is akin to saying we do not believe that we can make a difference, or that we are apathetic towards the outcome. Only those in extreme privilege can choose to ignore a political situation that so desperately requires their voice, because the status quo preserves their power.
Our silence could cost many their lives, many who may not have the privilege to cast their votes. People in power retain exist through the mandate of us, the people. They exist to serve the requirements of communities. Wouldn’t it make sense then, to actively choose leaders who don’t just symbolically represent us, but also those who are capable of finding solutions and actively attempting to improve the quality of lives within our society and country? We have that choice, we have the power to drive that change. That power can only collectively amount to something if we as individuals decide to let our voices to be heard.
Shalini Soorya is a reader of Weekly Echo. A young professional in the field of medicine, she believes in democracy and is hoping that Malaysians regardless of their race, religion and background will pull in all their strength and show it at the polls on Saturday, November 19th, Malaysia’s highly anticipated 15th General Election.
— WE
The views expressed here are that of the writer’s and do not necessarily reflect that of Weekly Echo’s.