Looks Like An Election
photo credit: slightly-less-random
As the last few weeks have passed, it appears more and more that it is not IF we’re going to have an election but who will trigger it and when. In all likelihood we will be into a campaign before the end of this month, likely next week.
If it wasn’t so hypocritical it would almost be amusing how the parties are claiming they don’t want an election while preparing for one that of course the ‘other guy’ is going to trigger. Really, let’s get real. Harper wants an election in the hope he can attain a majority government, Ignatieff, & Layton want to unseat the Conservatives. The only one who likely doesn’t really care if there is an election is Duceppe since he knows full well he wont form the government.
As for me, I’m good with an election taking place. I’ll admit my bias, Harper and his band of cronies need to be banished to the opposition benches. Even better, they need to be off the public payroll but I know some of their people will get elected or re-elected. In fact, some of them need to be elected in order for our democracy to be healthy.
It is our unhealthy democracy and my concerns about it that is a big part of why I want to see an election.
Having said all that, the huge struggle isn’t really going to be which political party to support and elect. The biggest challenge is going to be getting Canadians to sit up, pay attention and make informed choices at the ballot box.
All the democracy in the world doesn’t mean anything unless we as Canadians participate. A disengaged population provides the government the right and to some degree the duty to run the country without the people’s input.
Is that what we want to happen? Do we really want to hand over power to a few?
Our votes are stronger than we realize. Collectively we make the choices. So, if you haven’t been paying attention, it’s time you sat up and did so. Don’t just blindly react to political parties and their propaganda, take responsibility for making an informed choice.
Are you engaged or really don’t care?
Visit Out of the Shadows – My commentary on the world as I see it
