Why Our Governance System Fails to Achieve Its Goals

A robust governance system is the foundation of a prosperous and stable nation. However, it is often heard that the system we have in place fails to meet its objectives effectively. Why does this happen? The system itself is sound, but the issue lies with political leaders who either do not understand its true functions or manipulate them. Additionally, the general public is often unaware and simply follows the lead of these politicians.

Understanding the Threats: A Metaphor

Everyone knows the dangers posed by lions, tigers, bears, crocodiles, and sharks. These wild and ferocious animals are well understood, and people know how to avoid them. On the other hand, not many people can distinguish between monkeys, apes, and other tree-dwelling animals. This lack of understanding makes it difficult to comprehend their behaviors.

Similarly, when we talk about governance and the management of national issues, it is crucial to understand the systems in place. The best system to solve national problems can only be effective if it is well understood. Let’s look at some of these systems:

• Democracy
• Parliamentary
• Monarchy
• Constitutional
• Party-based

These concepts are not visible and can only be understood through knowledge. How many people involved in politics truly comprehend these systems? It seems that 90% of the populace does not really know how they work, let alone understand how they function according to laws and regulations to solve issues. The main problem is that 95% of people do not know how to use these systems effectively to resolve problems.

The Essentials of Democracy

The foundation of democracy includes:

• The freedom to choose candidates and parties
• Freedom of speech and the right to express opinions
• Freedom to assemble to give views or protest peacefully

These three rights are crucial for the public, especially when it comes to policies or significant national issues where the government is perceived to act against the public’s interest.

Democracy operates on a five-year cycle where the mandate to govern is granted by the people. During this period, these essential rights become particularly important when there is a deviation in policies and actions that are seen to harm the people.

Understanding the Role of Government and Opposition

It is vital for the public to understand that both the government and the opposition represent and serve the people. They are not enemies of the public but are employed to serve them. Like a prosecuting lawyer presenting evidence and a defense lawyer defending, both are not enemies but play opposing roles to achieve justice.

Similarly, in governance, the administrative system is designed to ensure decisions and actions taken are in the best interest of the people and the country.

The Role of the Public

The role of the public is also very important and should not be influenced by government or opposition parties. The public should act based on principles and guidelines of truth, history, facts, knowledge, ability, experience, and successful records. Decisions should not be driven by emotions or the directions of the ruling party or opposition. The public holds the trusteeship of their governance system.

In conclusion, the failure to achieve the goals of our governance system is not due to the system itself but rather the lack of understanding and manipulation by political leaders, coupled with the general public’s lack of awareness. Education and awareness about the functioning of these systems and the role of each entity within them are crucial for the success of governance.