“Japan ex-PM Shinzo Abe dies after being shot during speech” a shocking top headline to see on a Friday morning. What other crazy thing we have not seen? After being the longest serving Prime Minister in Japan history, his contribution does not deserve such verdict. After 8 years of serving his nation, 67 is when he could finally enjoy the rest of his life. Such a heart-breaking news. Is it a political factor that costs his life? What could have been the worst decision he ever made?
Politics is a complicated matter. This is solely my view by the way. Whether politicians are fighting for people, nation, status, or for themselves, I can never truly understand the complexity. Despite that, it is not a piece of cake to be one. Public can easily thrash a politician, even a very diplomatic one. Politics can never satisfy everyone. Politicians can campaign at their best to please people. Some may come across as doing too little, some may come across as overpromising. No matter what, there will always be an X factor group that goes against them.
Talking about Boris Johnson’s resignation that happened yesterday, he resigned mainly forced by majority. I was debating about this with my partner. Is he a weak leader for giving in? Is he weak for stepping down or is he compromising for majority happiness? I remember arriving in the UK 2 years ago, Twitter was already trending #BorisOut. Today, the trend is real: #BorisResigns. I wonder, who would be the next best Prime Minister for the UK? Theresa May wasn’t good enough. Clearly according to public, Boris Johnson is also not good enough. Then, who is good enough? Maybe there is someone out there who could be better with on-going thrashing.
Leaders need to stand strong and weather the storm.
More importantly, they make important decision. Decision that affects many, decision that no one else has guts to take on. Why? If you make a good one, people say that’s your job. If you make a bad one, you’re done. Politicians are well aware. The thing is, implication amplifies with public. No doubt every decision has its consequences. Taking someone’s life is not one of them. It’s the courage to earn respect and take responsibilities that matter. Even leaders can make mistake just like any human, all reason why political party team exists to support a leader’s decision. It’s not a one man show. Having said that, if people don’t want you there (even your own), there will be no appreciation towards your effort no matter what.
There is no right or wrong decision. The worst decision is not to make one.
Certainly, former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe does not deserve to lose his life just because he is a brave leader who decides for his nation.
