Politicians must treat citizens with respect

It is like a recurring decimal, it never fails. Once the general election bell is rung, we begin to see our politicians in our faces regularly. With a listening ear, some with pen and paper, they want to know all your concerns. They promise that once they get into office, for sure, your concerns will be on the agenda.

How many of us have been voting for decades? The election comes, but our concerns and our politicians’ promises are nowhere to be seen. For decades, citizens have been begging for a regular supply of tap-borne water and better roads, but I am still dodging potholes all over Trinidad and Tobago after all these years.

If there is one thing we’re used to from politicians, it is empty promises. It seems the only time politicians truly communicate with the electorate is before general elections. Then there are the town hall meetings—the aven­ue for the public to voice their concerns and vent their feelings. But it is only a talk show, to say that they are listening, when at the end of the day life goes on as usual, our leaders doing their own thing.

If people have elected you into power, it is crucial that you consistently listen to them and are not always seeking avenues to justify your actions. While many in elected positions may not see things this way, the fact remains that they are really employed by the people.

To our leaders elected into public office: it is the population’s tax dollars that pay your salaries and perks. We deserve to be well informed about all national matters, which to me is being fair, honest and accountable.

I am sick and tired seeing the electorate being treated with scant courtesy, having to protest and beg for basic needs, with constant burning of tyres, etc. What really touches my heart is when children are also protesting because of problems at their schools that have needed fixing for years. That, to me, cannot be right.

I appeal to our leaders: you are not all-knowing, and no man is an island. Those on the ground must be treated with respect and dignity at all times. Remember, if it were not for them, you would not have been elected into office. Serve them pro­perly. A leader who fails to listen to others is seen as a dictator in today’s environment; wise, sensible people will not che­rish that type of person.

“Of all the skills of leadership, listening is the most valuable—and one of the least understood. Most captains of industry listen only sometimes, and they remain ordinary leaders. But a few, the great ones, never stop listening. That’s how they get word before anyone else of unseen problems and opportunities.”—Peter Nulty, Fortune magazine.

Let us do it together, ma­­king T&T a better place for all.

Arnold Gopeesingh

San Juan