The dichotomy between constructive criticisms and false praises in contemporary politics

Modern or contemporary politics or governance are hinged on free speech and people's ability to express their views through constructive criticisms or divergent thoughts.

Indeed, our democracy has come a long way and the sentiments or opinions articulated by people help to enhance and strengthen its frontiers for growth and development.

We have seen different political parties especially the two major parties steer the affairs of the country since 1992 to date with varied policies geared towards shaping our political discourse.

Interestingly, "Modern political democracy is a system of governance in which rulers are held accountable for their actions in the public realm by citizens acting indirectly through the competition and cooperation of their elected representatives."

Again, "Government of the people, by the people and for the people" were the words used by Abraham Lincoln in the year 1863 while talking about democracy."

Put simply, there are people within the circles of our political discourse with a penchant for tagging others who come with an intellectual oration in seeking the right things to be done.

Unfortunately, they erroneously tagged such people as all-knowing simply because they have varied opinions expressed through intellectual means that differ from theirs.

For one to articulate and scrutinize issues based on facts devoid of personal attacks, maligning individuals, and not use despicable words to advance or make a point speaks volumes.

As espoused by Shiv Khera:
"Wise people prefer to benefit from constructive criticism rather than be ruined by false praise."

In all frankness, some people are best at sitting on the fence without any constructive criticisms to add beauty to our thriving democracy hinged on deep analytical thinking and the need for tolerance in accepting opposing sentiments.

Great leaders welcome constructive criticism and feedback back from the people who have given them the mandate to lead. Their doors are wide open to accommodate and accept divergent thoughts to keep them on their toes for corrections if there are any of such.

Strangely, there are some close to their leadership who lack understanding and appreciation of the importance of keeping their bosses on their toes for modifications.

As I stated above, it baffles my mind when some of these things transpired and those with the mindset of false praises run with the speed of light to tag those with independent minds for inclusivity for open and transparent leadership.

Why must we always think that our leaders are beyond reasonable, open, and fair constructive criticisms? This is quite a repugnant and archaic way of politicking among the youth.

With all due respect, some of our political leaders in respectful positions failed woefully not because they lack the foresight and expertise to deliver but because the false praises are ruining and making them feel as if all things are in order due to lack of checks and balances from opposing views.

I have heard what others said about the approach of championing things to be done through constructive criticisms devoid of insults and name-calling but it again heart-wrenching when I hear some who chastise and even call some of our leaders not to mind or respond but the astute ones respond for maturity to take center stage.

In a strict sense, is it out of envy or the display of outright ignorance and minds predetermined already? But as the saying goes " A focused mind delivers irrespective of the push or pull."

It's about time for us to embrace knowledge-based arguments centered on issues not personalities involved.

Nonetheless, it's not the age or size but one level of detailed analysis of issues that must be celebrated not quick judgment on the age or size of the individual.

In summary, the time has come for us to move beyond trivializing issues and the fixation on underrating people because of their age or size in our political architecture.

Shalom!
Abdulai Abdul Razak
[email protected]
Tamale South Constituency