A big thank you to all who participated in last week’s local elections. Everyone who stood as a candidate bring legitimacy to our democracy by offering a choice. It is no small thing to stand for office. Most are motivated to serve their community. Sadly abuse of politicians has become normalised and will not make it easy to attract the best people to pursue what is an important role. Our public services perform better as a result of the challenge and scrutiny that we in public office do on your behalf. Our job is crucial to make sure that the money taken from you in taxes is spent wisely and well.
I am always disappointed that more people haven’t used their vote. Across many wards in Thurrock less than a quarter of those who could vote did so. That said, I must confess that the backdrop of our national politics does not encourage anyone. At a time when many people are worried about how they will pay their bills, to see Boris Johnson and Keir Starmer argue about what does or does not constitute a party whilst being less than frank about their own conduct is uninspiring to say the least. I am heartily sick of hearing about it and I know you all are too.
It is time to properly focus on the here and now. Our challenges are real and immediate. Past wrongs need to be resolved quickly so we can move on to the things that really matter.
And if our current leaders will not the public will start to look elsewhere for leadership. We have seen before new parties emerge when the public feel they are being failed. We have seen a rise in the number of independent councillors being elected. Our major parties need to reflect and do better.