Times of extraordinary choices and change

We live in times of extraordinary choices. We live in times of extraordinary change too. We can create our destiny or master it. We can live to our highest potential or walk the path of mediocrity. I call this to attention at a time when the country stands at crossroads yet again. We are preparing for local body elections and there is a keen sense of anticipation as today people are more connected, more aware, and more engaged in politics than ever before. The last local body election was held in 1997. Today, we are differently placed in terms of experience and expectations. I think people better understand that their vote makes a difference to what the elected authority can and cannot do. It is not just a person we are voting to office, we are also voting for the party they represent and the size of the majorities we want to see in place, besides their stand on policies that eventually affect our lives. People ideally do not cast their vote based on single concerns – for example economic concerns or policy preferences or public affairs. And hopefully people do not vote into office representatives based on their caste, ethnicity or looks. Nepal needs its citizens to really think about the things that really matter. We are yet distanced from some of the very basics of life – water, electricity, education, health, roads, a vigorous justice system, a small and efficient government, visionary leadership. Perhaps this is an opportunity to get some things right and that can only happen when we vote on meritocracy. Voting is an important, effective and meaningful way to back the issues you care about, and to put into office representatives who can best effect the changes you want to see. In business as in everything else, it will decide how we work, save and invest. In life, every level of governance affects how we live and what we do. It’s time to choose wisely.