One of the things that make us humans better and superior to other creatures is the fact that we are rational. The fact is that we can make decisions that not only affect us but other living creatures as well. It is a gift, or a privilege, as some would argue. A privilege that we must guard at all times because, in the end, we either prosper or suffer as a result of our choices and decisions.
Some decisions have to be made frequently, while others are made only occasionally. Some are even sequential in nature, like in the case of elections. General elections in Kenya happen every five years. Thus, 2022 is here and it is a year of choices and decisions. One fact we all should know is that whether you participate in the election or not, you will still have made a choice and a decision. There are consequences either way.
We are currently in the campaign season. Some of us have already made up our minds on who we will vote for in various positions. That is great! Some are still weighing options and analysing every option critically. That is even better.
Then we have some who are undecided and don’t even seem to care whether the election is held. To them, all politicians are the same, just like the problems affecting us all. This, I can say, is pessimism and negative thinking, which we must change for a better country.
In all possible cases, however, choices and decisions have to be made. As a voter, you will have to choose between different people competing for the same position and decide who wins. You will have to choose between fame or popularity and the agenda.
You will have to choose between performance track records and empty promises. You will have to choose between servant leadership and oppression or autocratic leadership. It is all about choices and decisions that must be made by you and me.
This is the perfect time for each of us to think for ourselves. For once, if you have never, find time to analyse all the candidates with an open mind. Do not let the political songs, slogans, or propaganda guide you.
Be you and be real for once, if you haven’t done so in the past. Listen to your inner self and have a good reason for choosing person A over person B. Don't let things such as a person’s region, tribe or money influence your decision. After all, it is good leadership that we are interested in. Choose wisely and decide independently.
Lastly, the voice of the people is exercised through the ballot box. If you are a Kenyan aged 18 or above and planning not to vote, let this be your wake-up call. Your vote is your voice, and regardless of what other people may say or think, make sure you are heard.
It is high time you spoke for yourself and not be spoken for. Let us not be voiceless decision-makers but very vocal noisemakers and complainers when things fall apart. Let us fix this nation by being active participants in choosing the right leaders to serve us.
We are in the season of listening, choosing and deciding, remember this: choices have consequences.
Communication and Public Relations practitioner
