True democracy goes beyond ballots and power struggles; it prioritizes serving the people through inclusive governance. When politics focuses on humanity and cooperation, it fulfills its purpose as a vehicle for national development, not partisan division.
By Mpandashalo Mwewa.
Lusaka, Dec. 19 – In Zambia’s current toxic political climate, cooperation between the opposition and the Executive is often misinterpreted as political betrayal. This toxic narrative undermines the true purpose of governance – serving the people. Opposition Members of Parliament collaborating with the government should be seen as prioritizing their constituents’ needs, which often transcend political divisions. Essential services like access to healthcare are apolitical, yet in today’s environment, contracts are canceled simply because suppliers are perceived as opposition-aligned. This politicization of non-political issues harms the very citizens politics is meant to serve.
Also Read: Opposition Leadership: For the People, Not at Their Expense. Examining Dr. Chitalu Chilufya’s call for political leadership that champions dialogue and service for the nation, rather than one using the struggles of ordinary Zambians for self serving political ambitions.
For politics to truly serve humanity, it must foster democracy. Democracy is not about the dominance of the ruling party; it is about inclusivity, where all voices, including those of the opposition, are heard. True democracy ensures everyone has an equal say in shaping the policies that impact their lives. Without such inclusivity, governance becomes a one-sided affair, leaving the majority of citizens without representation in key decisions.
Democracy must also extend beyond periodic elections. Voting is just the starting point, not the endgame. Citizens need meaningful platforms to participate in decision-making processes between elections. When communities actively engage in governance, democracy transforms from a theoretical construct into a practical tool for societal growth. Participation strengthens accountability and ensures policies reflect the needs of the people.
The belief that multiparty elections are the ultimate measure of democracy is a flawed concept imported from the West. While elections are important, they often create an illusion of choice while preserving the political status quo. Genuine democracy demands more than ballots; it requires ongoing dialogue and a commitment to change. To break this cycle, we must reject politics as a self-preservation tool and reframe it as a means for advancing development.
Also Read: Prescription for Progress: Zambia’s Policy Cure Lies with Dr. Chitalu Chilufya! Dr. Chitalu Chilufya, the former Minister of Health, has been honored with the prestigious Zambia Medical Association (ZMA) Lifetime Achievement Award for 2024. Zambia’s ailing development needs policies that put its people first, not foreign interests.
Ultimately, politics should be about service, not survival. It must evolve into a bridge for progress, fostering cooperation and prioritizing national development over party loyalty. By embracing true democracy and depoliticizing essential services, Zambia can build a political culture that places people’s needs at its heart. It’s time to say “Yes to Development Today” and make politics work for humanity.
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