In the face of the mirage of opposition, let us strive for genuine change and hold those in power accountable for their actions.
By Dr. Lawrence Mwelwa | WD Columnist.
Lusaka, Aug. 4 – In the realm of African politics, a disturbing phenomenon continues to mar the fight against corruption. It is a phenomenon that goes hand in hand with what has been termed as Jason’s Law of Corruption – the Opposition’s crusade against corruption proving to be nothing more than a mirage once they assume power.
However, it is not just the fading promises and empty rhetoric that define this illusion. In many instances, those in power not only shift their priorities but also weaponize the system to target political opponents on baseless charges, all while enriching themselves.
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Take, for example, the recent events in Zambia. The United Party for National Development (UPND), while in opposition, positioned themselves as staunch adversaries of corruption, vowing to uproot this malicious force that had plagued the nation.
Their campaign speeches resonated with those weary of corruption’s corrosive effects, offering a glimmer of hope for change. But alas, once the UPND assumed office, a different reality came to light. Rather than staying true to their promises, the UPND swiftly shifted their priorities.
Instead of prioritizing the fight against corruption, they focused their attention on stifling political opponents. Masked as a pursuit of justice, they concocted flimsy charges against their rivals, using the legal system as a tool for oppression. The once-respected names in the Opposition were now tarnished, their voices silenced through unfair arrests and legal persecution.
Meanwhile, as this political theater played out, those in power shamelessly pursued their own enrichment. The very individuals who once claimed to be champions of integrity and transparency saw an opportunity to profit. Corruption, in its most insidious forms, manifested within their ranks.
Public funds meant to uplift the nation were siphoned off into personal accounts, luxurious lifestyles were adopted, and the gap between the politicians and the people they were elected to serve grew wider with each ill-gotten gain.
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The betrayal felt by ordinary citizens is palpable. They had placed their trust in these leaders, believing that change was possible, and that justice would be served. Instead, they are confronted with a bitter reality – the Opposition’s fight against corruption was merely a means to gain power, with no intention of upholding the values and principles they so vehemently touted.
In the face of such disillusionment, it falls upon the people to remain vigilant. We must not be swayed by empty rhetoric or superficial promises. Instead, we must demand true accountability from those who seek to govern us. We must remind ourselves of the lessons Jason’s Law of Corruption teaches us – that proximity to power often corrupts, and that the fight against corruption should not be a vehicle for personal gain.
Ultimately, change can only come when politicians uphold their promises and remain true to the values they espouse, even in the face of temptation. Let us not forget the true purpose of the fight against corruption – to build a society where justice prevails, where the people’s trust is respected, and where leaders represent the noble aspirations of their citizens, rather than exploiting them for personal gain.
In the face of the mirage of opposition, let us strive for genuine change and hold those in power accountable for their actions. Only then can we break free from the cycle of betrayal and disillusionment that has plagued African politics for far too long.
About The Author: Dr. Lawrence Mwelwa is a respected academician, a former Vice Chancellor, a politician and revolutionary writer.
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