Don’t be swayed by political parties' prosperity and inclusivity rhetoric

As political campaigns intensify, rhetoric surrounding prosperity and inclusivity dominates the discourse. Political parties striving to win voter trust are promising a future of economic growth and societal fairness. However, voters must be sceptical of these promises, considering past experiences and understanding the broader political context in which they are made. While these themes may sound noble, they are often used to mask deeper agendas and distract from real issues. Trusting campaign promises requires critical evaluation of both their feasibility and the parties behind them.

Beware of hollow promises

While it is tempting to embrace the language of prosperity and inclusivity, it is essential for voters to remain discerning. Historically, political campaigns have used such rhetoric to divert attention from underlying problems or to serve elite interests. Simply mentioning economic prosperity does not guarantee that policies will benefit everyone. Without careful scrutiny, rhetoric can easily turn into empty sound bites, failing to translate into real change.

The importance of political track records

A key factor in evaluating these promises is the track record of political parties. Voters should consider a party’s past actions as a gauge of their credibility. If a party has previously failed to deliver on similar promises or enacted policies that deepened inequality, voters should approach new promises with caution. A politician’s credibility is earned through consistent action, not just inspiring speeches. Past campaigns offer valuable insight into whether the promises of prosperity and inclusivity are genuine or merely strategic.

The promise of prosperity

Prosperity is often framed as economic growth, job creation, and improved living standards. Political parties typically promise a future where all citizens benefit from greater opportunities – through job creation, expanded access to healthcare, education, increased old age grants and housing. In times of economic uncertainty, such promises resonate strongly, as they tap into voters’ hopes for a better life. However, the questions remain: how will this prosperity be achieved and who will actually benefit?

Past experience shows that prosperity is often unevenly distributed, with many reaping little benefits from economic growth. For instance, in recent decades, economic expansion has disproportionately favoured a select few, leaving large segments of the population behind. While political parties may highlight new opportunities, like growth in sectors such as green hydrogen or oil, the real question is how these benefits will trickle down to average citizens. Will the promised prosperity reach those in remote areas, or will it continue to serve the elites?

The appeal of inclusivity

Inclusivity is a morally appealing concept, suggesting a society where all voices are heard and opportunities are open to everyone, regardless of race, gender or socio-economic status. Political campaigns that focus on inclusivity appear noble, promising a more just and equal society. However, inclusivity can sometimes be used as a rhetorical tool rather than a genuine commitment to change. Some parties may promote policies that seem inclusive on the surface but ultimately uphold the status quo, benefitting only certain groups while ignoring the needs of marginalised communities.

True inclusivity should lead to substantive changes in policy and societal structures, not just a superficial embrace of diversity. Merely appointing diverse individuals to leadership roles does not guarantee that policies will address systemic inequalities. Inclusivity cannot be reduced to a checkbox on a campaign platform. Voters must demand real policy measures and hold political parties accountable for ensuring that inclusivity translates into meaningful change.

The complexity of inclusivity

Inclusivity is a concept that is often left vague, making it hard to measure its practical impact. What does inclusivity mean in practice and how will it be implemented? Some political parties may make sweeping promises of inclusivity without providing clear, actionable plans. Addressing systemic inequalities requires structural changes that some parties may be unwilling or unable to undertake. Without a clear commitment to specific policies, promises of inclusivity can be dismissed as empty rhetoric designed to placate voters rather than deliver real progress.

Be cautious

As voters consider the promises of prosperity and inclusivity, they must be cautious and critical. While these themes may inspire, they can also be used to manipulate the electorate. By closely examining the credibility of the parties making these promises and demanding transparency and accountability, voters can avoid falling for empty rhetoric. It is vital to differentiate between genuine attempts at change and political strategies designed to gain votes.

Past campaigns have shown that political parties often use these themes as marketing tools, offering appealing promises without delivering substantive policy changes. Voters must be able to distinguish between promises that genuinely aim to transform society and those that serve the party’s political ambitions. By approaching political rhetoric with caution, voters can help shape a political landscape that reflects the ideals of justice, equity, and collective advancement.

Ultimately, voters have a responsibility to ensure their support aligns with genuine values and meaningful change, rather than ephemeral political gains. A discerning electorate is crucial to achieving a future where prosperity and inclusivity are more than just words but are realised through policies that benefit all members of society.

*Faustinus Shikukutu is an educator with more than 25 years of teaching experience and a resident of the Kavango East Region. All views expressed are my own.