ELIMINATING SOCIAL INEQUALITY - CLEAN POLITICS, YOU AND I CAN DO THE MAGIC

Politics is the art of obtaining power. By broader extension, it entails the act of solving problems, building and strengthening institutions, and creating opportunities for all and sundry. I’m of the strong unrelenting conviction that clean politics can help bridge the wide gap and ameliorate the social inequality prevailing in our society.

Now, what do I mean by clean politics? Fundamentally, it is the kind of politics that involves shouldering of the concerns of the masses whole-heartedly and strict adherence to the principles of fairness, loyalty, humane conscience, selflessness and accountability.

Social inequality is a touchy subject most people would not comment on. But it is a solid fact that some people sleep in seven-bedroom apartments fully air-conditioned whereas others sleep in the streets of Accra. The fact is in Ghana, the social class is strictly defined, that is, the existence of the rich and the poor.

Motivational speakers have been constantly hitting our ear-drums with the proposition that it is the individual’s hardwork, smartness, and level of self-motivation that propels him/her into greatness. This is true, but to a lesser extent. This is because to every situation, there are exceptions.

Social scientists, through extensive research discovered that social class have a tremendous effect on one’s life chances. So, in what areas can this argument be substantiated? Due to inadequate/lack of financial resources, several children from impoverished backgrounds die from certain diseases that could’ve otherwise been cured. I’ve seen and heard on our media families begging the public to make donations (financial contributions) to settle medical payments for their ward’s treatment, etc. But the rich have the advantage of being even flown outside the country for medical treatments. The situation is the same with education, employment, and even the administering of justice.

But we would experience a mind-blowing change if people with good intentions enter the political pitch plus active civil participation. I can visualise a Ghanaian environment where balanced development and equal opportunities would prevail, and the thickness of social inequality would be reduced.

In what ways can you and I bridge the social class gap? First, by accepting to do our national service at deprived communities. Second, by establishing our own self-imposed social responsibility to help deprived or impoverished families in our communities in the form of cash or kind. These and many other ways.

If we have successive governments who care for the welfare of the masses coupled with active civil engagement, a great difference would be made in the lives of the under-privileged and our beloved country, the hope of Africa, would stand out as a country where government and the citizenry make positive things happen. With strong unflinching faith in God and commitment, yes we can!