Political Opportunism

It seems strange to me the way people swap and change their political parties. I don’t mean electors voting different ways in different elections, but people who sign up and either stand or work for a party.

It would be impossible to say that you agreed with everything your party stands for, but to go to the length of joining and letting it take over your life, then to walk away at the slightest set back seems unbelievable. What is even more unbelievable is to then join a party you have disagreed with for so long.

Twice in the last three months I have been contacted by other parties to do this. Not face to face of course, that would be too polite. Firstly I was sent a postcard with details on it of how to join, and today an e mail. Not just to me of course bit a round robin one.

Often this happens when people are deselected. Regardless of whether or not this is a fair decision

 there must be a reason why it has happened. Who would vote against a good hard working person in favour of someone who would not do their fair share?

Within weeks you have sat before a panel telling them why you want to stand for the party, and then put yourself forward for a  seat. Again you will have told the members why you are the best person to represent them. Then, almost before the result has registered with most people that you have lost you have suddenly decided everything you said previously, you now don’t agree with and you are shaking hands for the press as a member of another party.

Its more understandable if policies change and someone decides that they wish to keep to their old views and stands as an independent. Admittedly, there is  less chance of having influence in the bigger picture, but if you are interested in the area you represent your scope will be wide enough.

The long term affect may be that you will not be trusted by the electorate next time you stand. Very few people are elected on their own merits but the party ticket, with most people lucky to have 100 or so personal votes.

In the long run, it seems best to stay involved in a party and fight for change from the inside. There you have the ear of the people with the power to make change. Stick with your beliefs and fight for what you believe is right.