How to End Special Treatment for Politicians and Restore True Democracy

 By Yusuf Habiib Hussein (Seer)

While the very notion of democracy is supposedly premised on the idea of the people deciding upon their future, there are many ways in which special treatment accorded to politicians undermines this democratic process in real terms.

Special treatment accorded to politicians refers to the condition whereby political leaders enjoy exclusive treatment in matters of public policy and decisions over and above members of the general public. This may include privileged access to information, financial resources, and the ability to control decisions without public input. Special treatment accorded to politicians often leads to policies designed for selective benefit, usually at cross-purposes with the people's will.

This can be mirrored in the various instances where the politicians have continuously proven that they decide on behalf of themselves and not in the interest of the public. Most of the time, this is evidenced by the fact that the voice of the public has not been represented and their views are merely pushed aside. The consequence of such a situation leaves them in a state of powerlessness and withdrawn from the whole process of politics.

There are a number of factors that create special treatment for politicians. One of the most frequent causes is the influence of money on politics. Rather often, politicians receive financial support from influential persons or huge corporations and expect some special treatment in return with some relieving policy decisions. Thus, a political system is created in which the public's needs are subordinate to the interests of the rich and powerful.

Furthermore, politicians are often in possession of privileged information not available to the public. In this regard, this privileged information enables them to make a decision based on insider information and create policies that may not be in the best interest of the public. Moreover, politicians usually possess a considerable amount of power and influence, which they can use to serve their self-interest. This may include but is not limited to the ability to enact laws or regulations in their favor at the cost of the general public.

Special treatment accorded to politicians has a high impact. Firstly, it results in policies which are meant to serve a few instead of the majority of the citizens. This may be uneven distribution of resources whereby the rich and powerful continue to get richer and more powerful at the expense of the citizenry. Besides that, giving special treatment to politicians can provide for no accountability of the same and nor become transparent. This may result in policy legislation that is not within the interest of the public, thereby weakening the public's trust in the political system.

This can lead to a situation in which the public feels alienated and is unable to do anything. The eventual outcome is that interest in politics dwindles and involvement by the public in the processes becomes minimal. In effect, the views of the public are not represented and their sentiments are also not considered.

There are various strategies that could be used in the struggle for the abolishment of special treatment for politicians and the restoration of genuine democracy. These include, but are not limited to, political engagement, reform of the political sphere, and facilitation of forms of political participation.

Increasing Political Engagement. The highest level of strategy that would be utilized for the removal of special treatment for politicians would be that of increasing political engagement. This can be attained by encouraging the people to take part in the political process and raise their voice to be taken into consideration. This includes casting the vote, taking part in a town hall meeting, and conducting or joining protests and demonstrations. Educating the public on the issues so that they may make an informed decision regarding voting and any other form of political participation is equally important.

Reforming the Political Sphere. The other ways of abolishing special treatment for politicians will be to reform the political sphere itself. This can include an introduction of campaign finance reform, making the whole process of politics much more transparent, and reducing the impact of money in the sport of politics. These reforms will make certain that the public's voice is heard and their view considered in making a decision.

Promoting Forms of Political Participation. This would involve the promotion of all-inclusive forms of political participation, such as online forums, town hall meetings, and any other form of engagement. Besides, there should be the promotion of forms of political participation that are inclusive and equitable, such as youth civic engagement programs and voter registration drives. Such initiatives will ensure that all participate in the political process irrespective of their background or economic status.

Come up with Reforms Needed to End Special Treatment for Politicians. Once there is the determination of strategies that work on bringing special treatment for politicians to an end, then it is time to come up with reforms needed to ensure effectiveness. Second, this may include the passage of laws on the promotion of a legal limit to reduce money's role in politics, more transparency and accountability, and equal opportunities for citizens. Finally, it is also vital that the public be informed on the issues for proper decision-making in the right manner when voting and engaging in other forms of political participation.

Second, holding politicians accountable through passing conflict-of-interest disclosure laws and setting up checks-and-balances systems to prevent abuse of power. And lastly, ensuring access to the political process by everyone and that the consideration of opinions is given weight in decision-making.

Resources for Political Participation. In case one wants to actively participate in the political process and be heard, he should not forget some of the very important resources available.

Media. TV, radio, and social media

The political parties

In fact, all these resources can help in ensuring that each and everyone exercises his right to take part in the political process.

Indeed, special treatment of politicians can actually harm democracy. The special treatment, if the proper strategies are laid, can be ended and true democracy prevail. Such includes increasing political engagement, reforming the political sphere, and fostering forms of political participation that are accessible to all. With these, special treatment for politicians can be brought to an end and true democracy restored.

Restoring True Democracy. Special treatment for politicians has a monumental effect on the democratic process, but yes, with the proper strategies in place, it can be ended, and true democracy can be reinstated. It will involve strategies such as deepening political participation, cleansing the political arena, and encouraging forms of political participation accessible to all. It also institutes reforms that ensure the voice of the public is heard and their sentiments put into consideration in decision-making. With such strategies in place, it is possible to end special treatment for politicians and restore true democracy.