It’s hard to imagine, but 2024 will be a big year for elections and democracy. Across the globe this year, more than 4 billion people – or just about half of the world’s population – will be going to a national election. This includes large countries like the United States, Indonesia and India. This statistic is not reflective of regional or municipal elections across the globe, including our own local government elections in 2024. 

Democracy is a fundamental system that has many important aspects. Many people often talk about the importance of freedom of speech and the right to dissent. These principles are valuable. 

So too is the importance of respecting and accepting the decisions of others, even if you lose a vote.

Sadly, in this era we see a growing trend of an inability to accept the democratic choices of others. The situation of Trump in the US, in 2020 and the potential for 2024, absolutely horrifies me and so should many who live in a democratic form of government.

As a new councillor, when I was elected in 2021, I was at the age of 28. At that time (and still), I often reflect on my family’s history and heritage. It is hard to imagine that two generations ago, my grandparents at the age of 28, were allowed the democratic freedoms to vote with the changes at Federal and State levels of government in 1962 that allowed Aboriginal Australians the right to vote. My nan kept the letter she received from the government that informed her of this right.

Within our local government sphere, it is difficult to imagine that there are some that are trying to deliberately undermine local democracy and decisions – if it meant (in their mind) that their ego and legacy remained intact. 

One of the key attributes I hold close to me is the importance of working together as a team, and to negotiate the best outcomes. That is an attribute that I have taken to my first term on council, and regardless of political views, ideas or personal relationships, I have always focused on that goal.

Being a councillor, and as a member of a team, requires all people to work together for the good of the community. I certainly hope 2024 is kind, respectful and focused. 

Stuart Larkins

Kiama Councillor

Disclaimer: The content of this letter solely reflects the views of Stuart Larkins, and do not represent the views of Kiama Municipal Council.