Every year we talk about electing educated people into the parliament. Do we forget that we elected these people too? We waited hours in line to vote them in. Why do we forget about educational qualifications at the ballot box? Why must these concerns arise AFTER elections?

Speaking of qualifications — I remember a woman who contested had listed out not only her educational qualifications, but her work experiences as well. An Msc. in Public Policy and Bachelors Degree in Public Management only got her 52 votes in the party primary.

We always complain about how there should be more qualified people representing us. Why do we not for them? Since many voters are also registered members at different parties, why do we opt for the “popular choice” during party primaries?

Come election time, we are all more-than-welcoming towards any candidate who offers us quick cash or quick fix to a temp problem. Not to mention how easily we get swayed by photo-ops where the rich & elites, who’ve no idea of the struggles of working class, pretend like they do.

On the off-chance we do elect educated & qualified people, which some constituencies have done so this time, as long as MPs put their party’s wants above the needs of those whom they represent, there is no point in voting for someone simply cause they’re educationally qualified.

Whoever you elect, remember that these are PEOPLE’S REPRESENTATIVES. They have a duty towards US. Raise your concerns. If they ignore or won’t bother to listen, make them. The same way they can get your number and call for votes, you can call them and give your opinions.

And I cannot emphasize this enough — please, please, read up on the on-going works of parliament. It affects our lives.

Track your MP’s contributions and their stands on different matters. Don’t be the person who believes ignorance is bliss. It’s not. Be informed about it.