As we inch closer to the National Assembly elections, politicians seem to be losing all sense of propriety. Political debates and discussions are veering tastelessly away from decency.

Buck-passing, mindless vilification, and egregious scourging among the political parties and candidates must stop. We have heard and seen enough. The electorate deserve better.

It is well past time our politicians knew that such unsavoury form of politicking will at best only reflect their squalid selves. Political campaigns can, and should be, more constructive and less febrile.

Undermining the wisdom of the voters never was a worthy strategy to win more ballots; it never will be.

As our democracy matures with each new election, it is the responsibility of the citizens to ensure that party politics do not divide us – the society. More importantly, it is incumbent on the politicians to not allow hatred and malice to seep in. Unfortunately, our politicians find it expedient to give rein to corrosive politics.

What could happen if things are let to ride is that with irresponsible individuals taking to social media, divisive politics can be damaging and dangerous. This is already happening in our society.

Political campaigns are about offering choice to the people and choice can be offered with certain respectability. It is about laying before the people the priorities of the nation and how they intend to make a go of them.

It is important, therefore, that we recognised our development concerns in the right perspective and bring them on the stage for the politicians to debate on. That’s how things get done in a healthy democracy.

The election commission is expected to announce the election date soon following which political parties will launch their campaign. It will be exciting and intriguing both. What we must make sure, however, is to not allow divisive politics take hold.

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