Parliament: To Work or Not To Work?

Novinite Insider » EDITORIAL | January 28, 2005, Friday // 00:00
Parliament: To Work or Not To Work? Photo reporters shoot a “Wanted” note placed inside the Bulgarian Parliament. The ironic message promises a reward for any MP that shows up for debates. Photo by Yuliana Nikolova (Sofia News Agency)

by Petya Bondokova


I have always had a liking for the way some nations raise true fans of their politicians. With the way royal families are treated like superstars in many parts of the world, and people collect their pictures from the newspapers; with the genuine devotion Danes feel for their Margrethe II; even with the way crowds of frenzied Americans gather to chant in support of their favourites. Such attitude is beyond political beliefs; it lies on traditions for respecting and trusting your own political leaders.

Different kind of traditions have taken root in the Bulgarian society, and in days like today it's easy to see why.

An utter mistrust and dislike for politicians as well as zealous gossiping about their suspected frauds bring a feeling of hopelessness, but come for a reason. To start with the simplest thing - showing up for work.

When all lawmakers from the ruling party, except for one, fail to attend crucial debates in Parliament, we seem to have a problem. The arrogant "I don't have to give you an explanation" behaviour that follows only makes things worse. And that denial of responsibility is only the latest one in a series of abandoned Parliament sessions, or such that were spent reading newspapers, surfing on the Net or just napping.

In other words, state affairs seem to be in the hands of people who are totally unwilling to be there at all. To listen, to reflect, to react, to speak, to argue, to make decisions, whether they agree or disagree; just get involved and seek a solution because they have been given that privilege by the people.

Those same people have every reason to feel disappointed and ask questions in the face of absolute carelessness.

After all, why are MPs so unwilling to go to work? Why do they need any further motivation when they are getting paid? Why hate a job that you have applied and campaigned for so eagerly?

It has become clear that playing truant in Parliament is a serious issue and will not be solved in a day or two. But answering those simple questions might be a good start.

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