We all believe that the government exists to serve the people. We believe that the government system functions for the benefits of the people. But, what is the true purpose of government?
We believe all of us getting together and electing our representatives is our government. And we believe we are the ones who elect them.
Yes, we are the ones who elect the leaders of our governments. But do we choose those among us who work for our common good? Or do we choose those who work for their personal benefit, the benefit of their family, the benefit of large business groups, foreign organizations and multi-national corporations?
Do we choose the ones who work for the betterment of the people? Or are we brainwashed to choose either of the two, both of whom do not work to meet the needs of the people?
We, the people believe that we all have equal rights and justice under the laws of our Government. Government claims that we are all equal for the reason that everyone has one vote. But, does the authority treat everyone equally? Do the political and the legal system provide ordinary people with the same rights and privileges as the wealthy and powerful?
We all believe that the government departments and its office bearers work to fulfill our needs and demands.
But, are the government departments and institutions functioning to resolve the concerns of the public and to bring people’s grievances to the attention of the government to find solutions? Or is it effective in just enforcing government policies, plans and decisions on the people? Are the government officials and staffs serving as the people’s representatives? Or are they just following the orders and obeying the authority’s guidelines? Do they operate for the people or for the government?
We believe that our political leaders introduce legislative changes and implement several welfare programmes and initiatives only to improve our lives.
But, are they implementing those programmes in the interest of the general population? Or is it for their personal benefit and the benefit of the businesses that plan to profit significantly from the project?
We all believe that the police department serves to protect and safeguard us and the judiciary system functions to ensure our rights and to serve us justice.
Yes, they may be effective to an extent in resolving interpersonal conflicts. And they may report, punish and settle crimes committed by the public. But, if the people criticize the authorities or fight against the injustices or if they question the government, will the police and the judiciary departments support the people and stand for them? Or will they join hands with the government and use their force against the people?
Do not react to these questions as if they are personally questioning any individuals. Do not consider it as questions directed at any specific country, any particular government or individual political party in any region, or at any political leaders, officials or workers.
Let’s question ourselves with an open mind whether the operations of the government machinery are for the people, regardless of which country, political system, party, or individual is in power or whoever is employed in any of the departments.
Let us all ponder over the above questions, bearing in mind the events we know, the political events in our memories, and our personal experiences.
Don’t just get convinced by merely asking, aren’t there any moral and ethical people working in any of the government departments? This line of questioning is an influenced one and will mislead us to return to where we started. Yes, there are honest and trustworthy officials, police men and judges. But aren’t they very comparatively few in numbers? Aren’t they just scattered here and there?
There are a number of politicians, government officials, staffs and workers who perform in manners that bring pride to their own department and strongly inspire and impact other departments. But, how much of difficulties and hardships they have to go through for them to honestly function?
When one is forced to face problems and challenges to work truly for one’s position and for the people, isn’t it a sign that the government and its system are functioning against the people?
Do we all choose our leader with a political clarity? Do the government departments and its office bearers work to fulfill our demands? Do the politicians implement programs and initiatives to improve our lives? Does the government machinery work for the welfare of the people?
If not, what is the true purpose of government?
This question is raised not only for the people governed, but also for all those who see themselves as representatives of the government, with rule, power, position, and responsibility.
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