Friday, March 23, 2007 Editorial: Breaking political clans’ hold
POLITICAL dynasties, in a democracy like ours, may not be evil per se, as it supports the democratic notion of individual freedom and free will.
This is more so in the present campaign when incumbent political leaders are allowing/urging clan members to run for available elective posts to retain hold of political power and influence in their turfs.
But the desire to consolidate political power and influence in the hands of one political family or clan is also bad.
Individuals are deemed endowed with rights that citizens equally share.
But when a person or family perpetually sways political power in an area, threats to freedom lurks.
Because of this, former president Fidel V. Ramos’ opposition to political dynasties is fair and in order.
First Family
As FVR pointed out, this starts with the First Family.
President Arroyo’s eldest son is running for reelection in Pampanga, her home province, while another son, who now resides in Camarines Sur, is also running.
Her brother-in-law is seeking reelection for congressman in Negros Occidental, while a sister-in-law is reportedly a party-list nominee.
Follow this trend to the Senate and local government units, and you will see the blooming of clan politics.
Propriety
The problem is not that clan members are not qualified for the elective post aspired for; they may be.
The issue is the sense of propriety on the part of the clan when it covets family monopoly of key positions in the political turf.
In decrying the present effort of political clans to control available elective posts in the country, former president Ramos said that political dynasties as a whole do not bode well for our democracy.
“It robs younger and more capable leaders who don’t have the influence, family ties, fame or wealth compared to the established powers, the chance to serve the nation.”
Political leadership is earned and one has to work for it.
Responsibility
Indeed, the true essence of our democratic life is a shared responsibility of governance, as well as the obligation to extend public service equally to all.
This is without regard to political affiliation and blood relationship as well as religious belief.
Political dynasties deny equal opportunities to others who are less known or less economically privileged.
