LENNOX FRANCIS
THERE IS trouble brewing worldwide. Everywhere is war, rumours of war, civil unrest and protests. The security forces to protect the state are now being exploited by those in authority to cover their misdeeds. Leadership is on and under fire.
Two of the most powerful virtues ascribed to leaders are wisdom and understanding. The offspring of these are prudence, truth, knowledge, discretion, sound judgment, riches and honour that bring enduring wealth, prosperity and justice.
When leadership goes astray the following traits are noticeable:
Just like God. Claims of all-knowing overshadow their mortality. They do not wonder about nature but operate as if they are the architects directing man to his destiny. The voice of the people as the voice of God no longer applies when it is time for removal.
Power of examples. Leaders expect followers to 'do as I say and not as I do' and expect corruption to be overlooked or, when confirmed, to be forgiven.
Arrogance. Leadership once thought to be God-sent seems to be operating with hidden and alternative agendas. Leaders know it all and have the solutions. Their constant shifting of the goalpost to solve problems convinces the populace that they lack knowledge.
Untruths. There are deliberate attempts to deceive or forget promises and agreements. They say what they don't mean and do what they didn't say. They mis-speak, give misinformation and false logic. Their words distort reality and their behaviour is counter-productive.
Perverse hands. They give with one hand and take back with the other. They boast of what they have done. They blow their own trumpets and praise themselves with national awards.
Wealth. They accumulate possessions well in excess of the rewards they receive for serving the public. In their ruthlessness they swallow the disgrace that comes with pride and leave the state vulnerable to destruction.
Scheming heart. Leaders laugh and talk with all but their schemes are to further the interest of the inner circle. The latter has knowledge of 'insider information' and are not hurt by sudden draconian policies.
Rushing feet. Like an uncontrollable wind they rush headlong into evil self-opinioned activities.
Oppression of the poor. Empathy is lacking and the measure of success in governing is being able to balance budgets. The basic needs of people are not being met using best practice as in both democratic and totalitarian states there is poverty, greed and hoarding. On the way up a campaign to elevate the poor is music to the ears. But leadership thrives on making the mighty mightier at the expense of the down-trodden poor.
Dissension. Party against party, brother against brother and race against race is the code to divide and rule to hold on to office.
Straying population. Not in its wildest dreams leadership sees itself as luring people astray. Its view is more like people are not listening and committing their own suicide. For leaders there is never poor leadership and no link to the misled.
Not quit
