There can be no doubt in everyone’s minds that the Presidential election is just around the corner. With about a year to go before the anticipated moment, hyped up expectations have arisen and pundits have commented that the election is like no other. With no heavy favorite to win, both the administration and the opposition have been trying to earn the favorable disposition of the people through ‘infomercials’. Such infomercials have flooded the airwaves like crazy.
The urgency of the aspiring candidates to gain an early advantage is clearly apparent not just by appearing on national television but by also being visible on the street posters posing as the beacon of hope for the country and that they seemingly portray an infallible image of good governance and reform. Clearly, the candidates are very much aware of the significance of media as a political channel, in which it can convey the image they want instilled unto the citizens. They have to make the media friendly to them. The internet, the print and TV media are all integral aspects that a candidate should study. Antagonizing the media is synonymous to political suicide. All candidates are aware of this and their political resources are spent to finance just that. The mindset that “they must have an edge” is making our political aspirants competitive.
In my mind,I hope that the electoral battle, the lifeblood of democracy will not just be a contest of media exposure and ear catching one-liners but one that involves a tackling of pressing issues that addresses the immediate needs and concern of the citizenry. I hope there are more substantial debates as to how to lead the country out of this shambles rather than mindless political bickering that seeks to address no problem and satisfy the political ego of politicians.
Reading descriptions of elections during the heyday of bossism and finding similarities to todays' politicians is downright disturbing.
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