The more things change, the more they stay the same – Alphonse Karr
Now while this may be one of the many perceptions that characterise our political system, I have found that the hope of better things to come is a useful antidote. Few may disagree that change offers new perspectives, but there are times when we resist it, most notably in cases when we are the ones required to change.
We desire change, but we refuse to upgrade our customs and practices. We desire a change in our Governments, but fail to demand a change in our governance. I would like to submit that the way(s) in which we conduct our affairs and the manner in which those affairs are effectively managed is the cornerstone of our hope restored.
To this end, it may actually prove more detrimental to our future prospects if we focus almost entirely on a failed or failing Government, rather than focus our energies on what needs to be done to change our failed or failing systems of governance. There is much talk about integrity and transparency these days, but how do we achieve such hallmarks of accountability when few are
held accountable?
I, for one, look forward with hope that within the first 100 days of taking office, that our next Government will deliver on a promise to the people to bolster our watchdog agencies by providing the necessary finances, manpower and technology they will need to effectively audit all of our public accounts. Armed with the respective legislative instruments, I also look forward to those agencies bringing to account those who are accountable and if need be, ensuring that those found culpable are prosecuted under the appropriate laws.
My fellow Barbadians, I trust that we are all deeply concerned about the state of our systems of governance. As such, I hope that we will have the good fortune of electing a Government that has the tenacity and the political will to usher in this new wave of public accountability.
– SEAN ST CLAIR FIELDS