We must restore our fear of God

Honourable – that is the title bestowed upon Members of Parliament. Rightly so because these are men and women upon whom the general polity has laid the awesome task of shaping the destiny of the nation. They are responsible for legislation, representation, scrutiny of the other arms government, and the formation of a government. Each of these responsibilities is critical for the growth and development of the nation – an onerous and yet most honourable call of duty. That is why no one can begrudge the honourable leaders of any form of facilitation that would help them discharge their duties effectively.

Yet, as messengers and servants of the people, every member of Parliament is expected to discharge their duties in utmost good faith and with reciprocal respect for the electorate. As some of the top leaders in society, MPs also have the onerous responsibility of being role models. Their speech and conduct are easily emulated by the rest of society, especially by children and youth, who are still in the most impressionable stages of life. That is why whenever MPs conduct themselves in any way that appears dishonourable, the disappointment by the citizens is deep and unforgiving.