Paulina Usiku

The youth, depressed over unemployment in the nation, have grown frustrated with having to wait in lengthy, tiresome lines to cast their ballots for politicians. Is there a reason we cannot perceive the difference ahead of time, and why do we always have to wait for elections to feel change?

In addition to thousands of graduates from all of the nation’s universities, we observe the number of unemployed individuals. What is the reason behind politicians’ inability to provide policies that would persuade us to vote?

The adage “actions speak louder than words” is well-known, yet the reality is quite different! They have this chance to demonstrate to us their abilities. Let their actions speak for themselves; otherwise, we will have another year where the young people stay at home rather than getting up early to vote, choosing instead to attend concerts that can help cope with their feelings of depression about unemployment, poverty and other issues.

People still do not completely comprehend the significance of participating in political activities, such as voting; therefore, now is the moment that they should be making significant investments in civic education across the nation, not just in locations that are convenient for them, as elections are to take place in November 2024.

This is the moment when charitable endeavours like these should be underway because of the number of people living in poverty, and the number of children who cannot attend school because they do not own school supplies or clothes. What counts is the thinking that goes into it, not necessarily the amount of money they invested; that is how a leader is supposed to operate. Instead of investing thousands of dollars in campaigns, you can at least contribute school shoes to underprivileged kids in a certain area. Based on my observations, a large number of
people from rural areas attend campaigns because they do not have access to food at home. Typically, a variety of food is supplied at campaigns, which can help them satisfy their hunger for a single day. 

As a nation, we cannot afford to ignore problems that are clearly visible. Together, we can make sure that the needs of the people are prioritised in these elections rather than just those of power and self-interest.

This is a wake-up call for all our leaders who are running for the 2024 National and Presidential Elections.

Leaders, you need to understand that with leadership comes great responsibility. 

If you find it challenging to already fix
what is broken in one’s personal capacity, how will you be able to maintain the country at large? Leadership starts with what you are doing right.

*Paulina Usiku is a student, youth advocate and co-founder of RHAO Charity. usikupaulina@gmail.com