By: Oliver Jah
As Liberians gear up for the 2023 presidential and legislative elections, the political landscape is increasingly resembling a spectacle of crowds rather than a genuine effort to win the hearts and minds of voters. It seems that the priority for many political parties has shifted from articulating meaningful policies to amassing large gatherings of supporters. But one must ask: is this really what democracy is about? Are we prioritizing quantity over quality in our electoral process?
While the ability to draw a crowd at campaign rallies has always been a part of politics, it appears that in Liberia’s 2023 elections, the focus on pulling in massive numbers has reached unprecedented levels. Political rallies have turned into extravagant spectacles, complete with flashy stages, blaring music, and charismatic speakers. But amidst all the grandeur, one essential question remains largely unanswered: What are these candidates offering to the Liberian people?
Campaigning should be about engaging with voters, addressing their concerns, and presenting clear and comprehensive policy proposals. It should be a platform for candidates to demonstrate their understanding of the issues facing the nation and their plans to address them. However, the current emphasis on crowd size seems to suggest that winning the elections is more about showmanship than substance. The danger in this approach is that it can lead to a disconnect between politicians and the electorate. When politicians prioritize appearances over policies, they risk losing sight of the real needs and aspirations of the people they aim to serve. The citizens of Liberia deserve more than just flashy speeches and massive gatherings; they deserve well-thought-out solutions to the challenges that affect their daily lives.
Furthermore, focusing on crowd contests can inadvertently foster an environment where money and influence determine the outcome of elections, rather than the will of the people. Candidates who can afford to host extravagant rallies may gain an advantage over those with limited financial resources, skewing the electoral process in favor of the wealthy and well-connected. To restore faith in the electoral process and ensure that voters’ voices are heard, it is crucial for political parties and candidates to shift their focus back to the core principles of democracy.
Instead of competing solely for the largest audience at campaign events, they should compete for the most compelling and impactful policy ideas. Candidates must engage with voters at the grassroots level, addressing their concerns and demonstrating a genuine commitment to improving their lives. Liberia’s 2023 elections should be an opportunity for candidates to present their visions for the future and engage in substantive debates about the nation’s direction. The electorate should demand more than a show; they should demand a thoughtful and informed campaign that focuses on the issues that matter most.
In the end, it is not the size of the crowd at a rally that should determine the outcome of an election, but the quality of the ideas and the integrity of the candidates. Let us remind our politicians that in a true democracy, it is the hearts and minds of the voters that decide their fate, not the spectacle they create on the campaign trail. Liberia deserves nothing less than a campaign that is truly centered on winning the trust and support of its citizens.
