The Poor Are Pawns in the Election Game

Why do politicians remember the poor only when elections are approaching? Why do promises of better roads, jobs, infrastructure and development become louder when politicians need votes? The answer may lie in the interests behind those promises. Politicians understand what ordinary people want because they know the challenges they face every day.

They know that people want jobs, affordable living, better roads, good schools and a future where survival does not become a daily struggle. During election campaigns, these needs become the centre of political promises. Politicians tell voters what they want to hear, hoping to gain their trust and secure their support. They understand the strategies needed to win elections, and they know that promises can play an important role in attracting voters. But what happens after the elections?

This is where the difference between words and actions becomes clear. Some politicians make impressive promises during campaigns but fail to deliver when they eventually assume office. The people who believed in their words are left waiting, sometimes until another election brings the same promises back.

Interestingly, not every politician who performs well makes the loudest promises. Some do not boast about what they intend to do or make grand declarations to win public attention. Yet, when given the opportunity, they may do more than people expected.

This raises an important concern. Why is it that some politicians who promise the most end up disappointing the people, while others who make fewer promises may perform better?

Political leadership should not be judged by the number of promises made during campaigns. It should be judged by what leaders actually do with the opportunity entrusted to them.

The poor are not merely numbers in election statistics. They are parents struggling to provide for their children, graduates searching for jobs, traders trying to keep their businesses alive and families hoping for better living conditions. Their needs do not begin when election campaigns start, and they do not disappear when elections end.

Politicians must understand that winning votes is not the same as serving the people. A campaign speech can attract attention, but only meaningful action can justify the trust voters place in their leaders.

The poor should not have to wait for another election before their suffering matters again.