[COLUMN] Politics, greed and self-enrichment
The gist of this article is to expose a disconnect between political idealism and politics, writes Elvis Masoga.
POLOKWANE – The historical conception of politics was genuinely motivated by egalitarian, puritanical and moralistic imperatives. The philosophical rationalism of politics is rooted in goodwill, but modern-day politicians have polluted the purity of politics. Politics is an art of governance and the selfless pursuit of communal advancement. But some charlatans and predators have turned politics into a paradise of greed, trickery and deception.
In Africa, the financial and economic status of politicians is far much higher than that of ordinary citizens. In Africa, our politicians are visibly well-fed and obese, driving ultra-expensive cars and residing in opulent mansions. A typical African politician is easily identified by his voracious belly – a parasitic sign of self-enrichment and public robbery. Contemporary politicians are living lavishly, luxuriously and extravagantly at the expense of impoverished citizens. As ordinary citizens, we are directly and unwittingly sponsoring the luxurious lifestyle of our politicians.
It is evident that the discourse of politics is no longer modelled on the age-old virtues of honesty, selflessness and voluntary service. Presently, we have become accustomed to avaricious politicians who “eat and drink on behalf of the masses”.
The dissipation and corrosion of ethical morality in politics has largely contributed to the advent of corruption in post-modernist society. Gifted in grandiose speeches and false platitudes, these politicians derive immense pleasure from deceiving and tricking the masses. In politics, the road to “a better life” is decorated with fascinating gimmicks, splendid trickery and deceptive promises. As one dissident friend of mine once cautioned: “As ordinary citizens, we withdraw money from the ATM. But political leaders withdraw money from the public purse.” Despite the hilarious texture of that statement, there is great substance in its referential implication.
Are politicians truly interested in bringing prosperity and advancement to their respective communities? Are political leaders actually truthful in their pledge to eliminate poverty, unemployment and inequality? Why are politicians having large bellies while many citizens are starving and poor?
Another puzzling complexity is that there are millions of citizens who are loyally supportive of corrupt and deceitful politicians. A toxic combination of foolishness and lunacy may explain why some citizens prefer to support corrupt politicians.
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