After Capitol: Reflecting on our own morally impeachable politics!
Friday, January 22, 2021
Raid on democracy: The Capitol mob marked the worst moment of Americau00e2u20acu2122s political crisis PIC: AP Photo
Even if we were to put morality and integrity aside, and vote on the basis of policy contribution and liberal debate of ideas, still, the outcome would be shameful.
Nations fall, democracies regress. This is the nature of any human construct. Decades after our democratic and political independence, the moral and ethical transgressions, which have become the hallmark of poor countries the world over, have knocked at our front door. In fact, they have been knocking for years, ringing true the notion that our ‘exceptionalism’ amongst our African peers is no more. If it's not a former President who won't excuse the nation from politically self-actualising and moving on, or the acute failure of political parties to provide strategic leadership in a time of crisis, it's the seemingly lax attitude given to improper conduct in the civil service.
Whilst celebrating milestones in inclusivity, with notably P5 billion awarded to vulnerable groups, the report sounds a 'siren' on a dangerous and growing trend: the ballooning use of micro-procurement. That this method, designed for small-scale, efficient purchases, now accounts for a staggering 25% (P8 billion) of total procurement value is not a sign of agility, but a 'red flag'. The PPRA’s warning is unequivocal and must be...