Political game playing keeps voter turnout low
Editor: In response to the editorial “Boosting turnout,” (The Times, Feb. 9), ponder why people are reluctant to vote.
At the federal and provincial level, the legislative bodies appear to be in recess more often than sitting. The cabinets dictate policy.
At the local level, our council chamber is a place of contempt.
Such listless performances breed apathy. We voters hear persuasion, followed by manipulation. The biggest prize is “managed democracy” in tune with a partisan ideology.
Democracy means more than the right to vote. It must be backed up with balanced resolve, and real equality.
Many people choose to throw their hats into the ring at election time, but many are mere novices lacking any astute ability to manage government. Public office is no cup of tea. To govern well, it requires an ability to listen and act responsibly on constituents’ concerns.
What takes place at higher levels of government is also applicable to local governments — the frustration, lack of resolve, charades and spin.
Democracy must not be a gong show, as it appears so often to be. That is the fault of politicians.
Township politics is a fiasco which needs some astute realignment.
Harvey D. Schultz,
Aldergrove
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