Elections in democratic nations

What a pity! For people in democratic countries, periodic elections have come to mean that they have to elect the "best of the worst" candidates, to represent them in legislatures and parliaments. General elections have indeed become a farce.

Theoretically, during the elections, the people have different choices. But, their dilemma is such that they can't make any considered choice and often have to choose between "the devil and the deep blue sea". The common man is resigned to his fate. There is little light at the end of the tunnel.

Really, there is no dearth of well-meaning and reform-minded leaders. It is tragic that they can't make it to the top, mainly because they don't have a mass, grassroots base, nor do they have money power to swing voters in their favor. These two components play a crucial role in capturing power through elections in democratic countries.

The respected Economist magazine once noted that the people in certain nations in Asia should be ashamed of their politicians, not of their democracies.

Good people are shy of entering politics, as there is no way they can beat the well-entrenched political system of corruption, collusion and nepotism (KKN). Corrupt politicians have mastered the art of how to grab power through democratic means.

The general public can, therefore, depend only on the three pillars, viz. a free and balanced press, a responsible opposition and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), to continually monitor and ensure good governance.

I would like to end this letter with a quote from Margaret Mead: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has".

D. CHANDRAMOULI, Jakarta