Yes, leaders must
definitely introspect at various stages in their political life. This is highly
advisable especially in liberal democracies. Most of the so-called leaders in
our democracies come to occupy their positions by shear accident and not
because of their in-born qualities, qualifications and hard work. As an
example, we can see dozens of such leaders in India who have occupied highly
important positions in the power hierarchy merely on the basis of loyalty to
high command, family connections and thick skin. There is no harm when they
hold party positions, but when they come to power they are affecting the lives
of millions of ordinary people in the country.
Leaders in democracies must understand the qualities required to be in power.
First of all they should have the innate qualities of leading from the front.
Then they should be service minded and willing to do hard work to attain the
knowledge for governing others. And most importantly they should be highly
articulate in explaining their stand and opinions to others. Those who have
failed in maintaining order within his or her own family cannot maintain the
law & order in a country of millions. The same holds good for all other
aspects of governance. How can someone who has failed in basic studies
determine the fate of millions of youth? And how can someone who is shy to face
the media have the capability to pilot the massive juggernaut of governance by
persuasion?
It is good that many educated individuals are coming into politics in liberal
democracies like India.
But it is equally important that they introspect often in their political
career, especially when they are thrust into key positions of governance by
shear luck. They should ask the following questions. Do I have the capacity,
knowledge and capabilities to handle this portfolio which is affecting the
lives of millions or billions of my countrymen? Should I stick onto this
position because there is no one else claiming the post? Am I doing justice to
my country and myself by controlling the destiny of our nation? I am sure most
of those in power in liberal democracies like India will have to quit if they are
truthful to themselves. Democracy can become the best form of governance if and
only if such introspections by its leaders are made mandatory.
