Dear Editor,
Just like empathy, integrity is hardwired – you either have it or you don’t. For this mere fact, the population must bear in mind that most people are predictable in their choices; therefore, individuals who are imbedded in the principles of integrity do not entertain dishonesty. And, those who are entrenched in trickery will always wrestle with the laws of integrity.
The recent handling of the Code of Conduct was received with mixed feelings as this important issue got very little attention from the MPs who were in attendance. Imagine, the Chair of the committee had to beg for their participation and it took them roughly one minute to start the deliberation. Was this not a continuation of their open rejection?
There is this constant pushback and unwillingness to embrace this vital principle. Nevertheless, one MP put it best when he described the situation as “The wish of many but not a desire.” How appropriate! But, was it a genuine statement, or was he flirting with the public’s trust, in the hope to change their perception of him?
This dishonesty is the motivating force that has crippled our parliament and the many governments over the years. It is also the method that several politicians have used to divide the people – some with their predatory smile, while others capitalize on their ability to articulate the message.
The meeting also reminded me of the situation that Abraham Lincoln faced when his friends deserted him because they wanted to select another nominee for an opposition convention. As he assessed their move, he remarked, “I have faith in the people. They will not consent to disunion. The danger is, they are misled. Let them know the truth, and the country is safe.”
Politicians have failed to present the people with the facts, which has allowed them to make too many decisions in isolation and for self-gratification. Therefore, the population demands that the Code of Conduct reflects the core values of the people and not the wishes of crooked politicians and their unscrupulous associates.
This transparency deficiency that has infiltrated the government apparatus for decades must come to a halt, to increase the country’s prosperity, through the principles of integrity. For this reason, more checks and balances are needed, especially when contracts are awarded. Why do some MPs feel that preference should be given to their friends and family, even if they are incapable of doing the job?
Since 10-10-10, some members of parliament have set a dangerous trend in condoning the actions of politicians who were condemned by the court. Even MPs who have censured the disgraced politicians are praising them today. So how does the population expect them to apply any form of maturity towards the principles of integrity?
How about the many classified discussions that are held behind closed doors and later debated on air? So, what was the real purpose of these private meetings and doesn’t this kind of conduct breach the integrity of parliament? Likewise, since 10-10-10, countless meetings have been postponed due to a lack of quorum and, sad to say, all at the expense of the taxpayers. But what do they care? Their salary and pension are fully secured, whether they choose to work or hang out somewhere.
In some instances, an incoming minister would be forced to accept cabinet members from a defunct government. Why should a minister be subjected to such control? Similarly, is it not a violation of integrity that the executive management team of Princess Juliana International Airport and other government-owned companies were forced to occupy the building of a disgraced MP, even though the rental agreement at the airport was still valid?
This is a classic example of why Juliana Airport is bankrupted today – the evil hands of outside forces are in play, controlling the government and dictating to parliament. It is high time that politicians secure the people’s patrimony and stop making a mockery of integrity.
Joslyn Morton
