POLITICAL POWER AND ITS ABUSE
POLITICS is a game of power, and politicians are the players. Almost entirely - the use of power by politicians is not always for the benefit of the people they represent, but rather for their gain.
Most often, politicians use their power to fight political battles and gain an advantage over their opponents and this article will explore why politicians use their power to fight political battles and the impact it has on society.
One of the greatest classical liberal historians of all time - Lord Acton once said "Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely."
One reason why politicians abuse their power to fight political battles is to maintain their position and influence because politics is a highly competitive field, and politicians are constantly vying for power and control. Politicians use their power to influence decision-making and maintain their position of authority.
They are also motivated by the desire to win elections and gain the support of the public. By using their power to fight political battles, they can increase their chances of winning and staying in power.
As Mike Cloud said "The problem isn't the abuse of power but the power to abuse" hence why we have seen and we shall continue to see politicians abusing their power, especially towards or during elections to oppress their opponents.
Another reason why politicians use their power to fight political battles is to advance their agenda. Politicians have different ideologies and beliefs, and they use their power to push their agenda forward.
They may use their power to pass laws, make executive orders or influence the media to promote their ideas.
This can be beneficial or harmful to society, depending on the politician's agenda. For example, a politician who is in favour of environmental protection may use their power to pass laws that protect the environment, while a politician who is against freedom of speech may use their power to pass laws that restrict it.
The use of power by politicians to fight political battles can also lead to corruption and abuse of power. Politicians who are motivated by their gain may use their power to enrich themselves or their allies.
This can lead to a culture of corruption, tribalism, and nepotism, where politicians use their power to benefit themselves and their families and friends, rather than the public they are supposed to serve.
Moreover, the use of power by politicians to fight political battles can lead to division and polarisation in
"Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely."
society.
When politicians use their power to push their agenda without considering the views of others, it can create a sense of resentment and anger among those who disagree.
Consequently - this can lead to a breakdown of trust and cooperation, making it difficult to find common ground and work together in unity and harmony for the benefit of all.
History tells us that politicians use their power to fight political battles for various reasons, including to maintain their position and influence, advance their agenda, and win elections.
While this can be beneficial in some cases, it can also lead to corruption, abuse of power, and division in society. Therefore, it is essential that politicians are held accountable for their actions, and that checks and balances are put in place to prevent abuses of power.
This includes the rule of law, an independent judiciary, a free press, and a robust civil society. Ultimately, politicians must serve the public interest and work to build a society that is fair, just, and equitable for all. Above and beyond all other considerations, politicians ought to be reminded that political power is not permanent and that they ought to use it wisely - because as the saying goes - to whom much is given much is required.
- Lord Acton