Political tensions and rivalries are reaching new heights as 2025 elections draw near, with various parties across the globe grappling with issues of governance, accountability, and unrest.
Recently, the Delhi Congress ignited discussions by launching 'Mauka Mauka Har Baar Dhokha', a scathing booklet critiquing the performances of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The initiative, spearheaded by Congress president Devendra Yadav and notable party figure Ajay Maken, aims to highlight the unfulfilled promises of these parties during their tenures.
Yadav stated, “The people of Delhi had initially hoped for substantial development and progress when they voted these parties to power.” He underscored the disillusionment felt by citizens, who, after eleven years of AAP governance and ten years of BJP rule, looked back on their hopes with disappointment. Yadav contrasted this situation with the previous 15 years under Congress’s Sheila Dikshit, during which he claimed significant advancements were achieved across various sectors.
The booklet has appeared as part of Congress's strategy to regain influence, especially as the political climate intensifies with upcoming elections. The criticisms presented aim to resonate with voters seeking change and accountability, positioning Congress as the viable alternative against the two ruling parties, currently under fire for their failures, comprising infrastructure deficits and inadequate public services.
Regarding the political situation worldwide, democracy is finding itself both challenged and resilient. According to Reuters, “Democracy looks bruised but not beaten as it heads to 2025.” This sentiment rings especially true after the results remained mixed across various countries, including Mexico, where 37 candidates were assassinated prior to the elections yet managed to elect its first woman president, Claudia Sheinbaum.
On the home front, the atmosphere is charged as South Korea faces political instability. Following President Yoon Suk-yeol’s declaration of martial law, markets were left shaken, prompting leaders to call for unity and stability. This reflects the broader apprehension over leadership transitions, particularly as South Korea is viewed as both a military ally to the US and counterpart to North Korea's nuclear threats.
Meanwhile, developments from Uganda showed police intervention to manage political tensions as Lwemiyaga County MP Theodore Ssekikubo attempted to address his constituents amid rival tensions. Officers used teargas and rubber bullets to prevent him from entering a meeting organized by rival Joy Kafura Kabatsi. When the police obstructed his entry, Ssekikubo urged calm among his supporters, claiming, “When you see all powerful army generals ganging up against Ssekikubo, just know I am on the right track.”
The chaos surrounding differing political factions is compounded by public skepticism. Kabatsi pointedly remarked, “Abusing people will not save him [Ssekikubo] this time round,” as tensions surrounding land grabbing and governance became focal issues within the community. This highlights the fierce rivalries at play, particularly as parties struggle to gain the upper hand, often using past governance failures against each other.
Calls for accountability resonate strongly among current political leaders as well. Bishop Gideon Yoofi Titi-Ofei addressed President-elect John Dramani Mahama, advising him against using accountability measures as tools for political vendettas. He emphasized the need for justice without vengeance: “Take a firm stand against corruption by prosecuting those who misuse public funds—no matter how high their position.” This perspective embodies the struggle for integrity within governance, reminding leaders and voters alike of the importance of development over retribution.
The approaching elections are instrumental for political parties worldwide. The climate suggests both a yearning for change and a demand for responsible governance from elected officials—and citizens seem to be ready to hold them accountable. Eventually, political narratives and strategies employed will deeply affect the choices voters make, whether they recall previous successes or failures or are drawn to promises of progressive governance. The call for transparency and authentic leadership remains pivotal as we enter such a consequential year for democracies across the globe.
