This is an opinion article written by Lynne Strong.

As we approach another election cycle, it’s a good time for our community to pause and reflect on the values we hold dear and the qualities we admire in those around us. In a world often overshadowed by divisiveness and conflict, it becomes ever more critical to consider the kind of leadership we want to guide our community forward.

Think about the individuals in your life whom you truly admire. These might be family members, friends, mentors, or even public figures who have made a positive impact on your life. What is it about these people that makes them stand out? Is it their integrity, their compassion, their unwavering commitment to doing what is right? Perhaps it’s their ability to listen, to bring people together, or to inspire action in others.

These qualities—integrity, compassion, commitment, and the ability to inspire—are not just admirable traits; they are essential for effective leadership. As we reflect on these values, we should consider how they translate into the realm of politics and governance.

In the political arena, we often see a different set of behaviours. The noise of personal attacks, sensationalism, and divisive rhetoric can overshadow the more substantive qualities that we should prioritise. Yet, it is precisely during these times that we must strive to identify and support candidates who embody the values we admire.

Integrity and accountability:

Look for candidates who have a track record of honesty and transparency. These individuals are not afraid to be held accountable for their actions and decisions. They are the ones who, even when no one is watching, will do the right thing.

Compassion and empathy:

Compassionate leaders understand the struggles and challenges of their constituents. They listen with empathy and make decisions that consider the well-being of all community members, especially the most vulnerable.

Commitment to community:

True leaders are deeply committed to the community they serve. They are involved in local issues, advocate for positive change and work tirelessly to improve the quality of life for everyone.

Ability to inspire and unite:

In times of division, we need leaders who can bring people together, inspire hope and foster a sense of unity. These people build bridges rather than walls, finding common ground and encouraging collaborative solutions.

As we head to the polls, let’s remember that our votes have the power to shape the future of our community. By choosing candidates who reflect our shared values, we can ensure that our leaders are not just politicians, but true representatives of the people.

Take the time to research the candidates. Attend community meetings, ask questions, and engage in discussions with your neighbours. Look beyond the campaign slogans and scrutinise their actions, their histories, and their commitments.

I invite everyone in our community to reflect on the values you hold dear and the people you admire. Let these reflections guide your choices in the upcoming elections. By supporting candidates who embody integrity, compassion, commitment, and the ability to inspire, we can build a stronger, more united community. 

Our collective future depends on the choices we make today. Let’s choose wisely, holding our leaders to the highest standards and ensuring they reflect the best of us. Together, we can create a community that thrives on respect, understanding, and shared purpose. Thank you. 

Probing questions you could ask of candidates:

1. Transparency: Can you provide examples of how you have demonstrated transparency in your previous roles or in your current campaign?
2. Accountability: How do you ensure accountability for your actions and decisions? Can you describe a time when you had to take responsibility for a mistake or difficult decision?
3. Ethical challenges: How do you handle ethical dilemmas? Can you share an instance where you had to make a tough ethical decision?
4. Community understanding: How do you stay informed about the issues facing different segments of our community? Can you share a story where you helped someone in need?
5. Inclusive decision-making: How do you ensure that the voices of marginalized or vulnerable groups are heard and considered in your decision-making process?
6. Supportive policies: What policies or initiatives have you supported or proposed that directly benefit the most vulnerable members of our community?
7. Local involvement: Can you describe your involvement in local community organizations or initiatives? What have been your key contributions?
8. Advocacy and action: How have you advocated for change in our community? Can you provide examples of successful initiatives or programs you’ve led or supported?
9. Long-term vision: What is your long-term vision for our community? How do you plan to achieve it?
10. Leadership style: How would you describe your leadership style? Can you provide an example of a time when you brought people together to achieve a common goal?
11. Conflict resolution: How do you handle conflicts within the community or among your team? Can you share a specific instance where you successfully mediated a conflict?
12. Building consensus: What strategies do you use to build consensus and encourage collaboration among diverse groups with differing viewpoints?
13. Motivation: What motivates you to run for this position? What do you hope to accomplish if elected?
14. Values and principles: What core values and principles guide your decision-making process? How do these align with the needs and aspirations of our community?
15. Community feedback: How will you gather and incorporate feedback from the community into your policies and initiatives? Can you provide an example of when you successfully did this?