INK SPILLS
Tuesday, August 20, 2024 | 60 Views |
Imagine the drama, the intrigue and the family members popping out of the woodwork claiming their six degrees of separation to the State House! "Oh yes, I stayed in the State house bedroom for a night in 2002, where's my paycheck?" But in reality, while the concept of providing for the families of former leaders is not unheard of, the specifics can vary greatly from country to country. But who wouldn't want a safety net for their loved ones? Just maybe not one that includes third cousins twice removed who once attended a state dinner.
These citizens with testicular fortitude braved it and went to the minister and said 'you cannot do that'. And in a surprising twist of events, the minister changed his heart and this became the talk of the town. It's not every day that you see a politician backtrack with such flair. First, there was a television appearance, where the minister's remorse was broadcasted in high definition – a pixelated apology for all to see. Then, the radio sequel, where the minister faced the music, quite literally, as the host turned up the heat, grilling him with questions as the listeners tuned in for the sizzle. It was a political drama better than prime-time TV, with citizens playing the role of the chorus, commenting and watching as the story unfolded. Who knew accountability could be so entertaining?
Yet, while this crisis ravages the communities, the administration is championing a major, resource-intensive legal reform and the establishment of a dedicated Constitutional Court. While the principle of strengthening constitutional justice is commendable, the timing is profoundly misplaced. When the President himself admits the government coffers are limited, every thebe and every moment of political capital must be directed towards the...