Over the years I have looked at the political arena and there are a few observations that have stood out in my mind. It would seem to be that whenever election draws near you can actually forecast what will take place on the election campaign trail.
I believe that our politics and the way our politicians carry about themselves must be reviewed with an effort to change, and in so doing, raise the standard of politics in T&T.
I would like to shortlist some of the areas that, in my opinion, surely can do with serious adjustments.
Let us deal with the character assassination. This is always a must and falls into the agenda almost nightly on the podiums. Sometimes the things that are brought to the public are of such a personal nature it certainly leads to embarrassment to the party involved.
I wonder if anyone is serious about an election if they really see this as important to the night's proceeding. The party manifesto is what they want to hear about. At least I think so from where I stand.
Then after the election is over you have to deal with the wars between the elected Government and the opposition. I am yet to see, at any time, these two coming into Parliament and agreeing on something without some form of resistance. Many times what shows up are the immaturity and childlike attitudes. What is worse is that this can be viewed by the entire nation through the Parliament channel.
Our politicians must realise that citizens are looking for solutions to the nation's problems, not who is the messenger. It is a new political way of thinking, so if the other side has a brilliant idea that can solve the problem, use it.
What about transparency, honesty and integrity by all our leaders? This is not pointing fingers at anyone, but let us be honest, look at T&T's political history, scarred with a host of corruption allegations. When time should be spent on building the economy what do we have? A host of investigations, inquiries taking millions of tax payers' dollars.
We definitely need a political transformation going forward to see any improvement with politics of this country. It must begin with those wearing the political jackets.
KEVIN BOURNE,
BOUNDARY ROAD, SAN JUAN