United Kingdom goes to the polls on July 4th.
Since the election was called by British
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, I have had the opportunity to travel to some parts
of the United Kingdom to discuss with folks about the election, their
expectations and what could be done to support those who have not registered to
vote. I also worked on voter registration drive in places in West Midlands and
North West England. As there are many
people who are excited about the opportunity the election could bring, there
are still others who told me they may not even vote.
One
of my experiences is worth sharing. Whilst speaking to somebody, the person
said they wouldn’t vote. I asked why they were not going to vote. They said, ‘these
leaders are the same; the parties are the same; they are all the same; hence I’m
not voting.’ My follow up question was, ‘when was the last time you voted?’
They replied, “it has been a while since I voted.” I thus politely said, ‘are you all the same
then?’ ‘Oh no,’ they said. That
conversation was interesting on many grounds. I hope the person will vote for
what they believe in; as I do.
Coming
back to the election, the ball is now in the hands of the British public and
all those who are eligible to vote and decide who should lead them for the
coming 5 years. Vital to participate in the election. There is no need for
apathy. Apathy to participate in local democracy is not the way forward. If we want
to see our voices heard; if we want to see strong civil societies that can hold
the state and the market to account; if we want to see the issues we campaign
for to be implemented; then it is important to get out and vote. It is
important to remember that we can only win through actions. Our actions on the
election day is mostly associated with our votes. Our anger could only be
addressed through actions. Our hopes could only be a reality through actions. The action we need to take is to get out and
vote on the election day; and also encourage others to vote.
Worthwhile
to remember that many people around the world die to get the right to vote.
Many others suffer in the hands of brutal dictators and their agents because
they want to have a say in their countries’ affairs. We
may not like politics but our lives are affected by politics. Hence there is a
need to engage actively in local democracy and vote for what matters for us. If
we don’t engage locally and use our democratic rights, we must accept what
others have voted for. By the end of the day, the voice of the majority rules
even if we do not agree.
Avoid
apathy and get out and vote! Your Vote is Your Voice! We may not get what
we vote for, but it is our chance to exercise our democratic rights.
July
4th is the day!
