Do you know that walking the ground at age 65 put your ankles at risk according to a US survey? This revelation came from an erstwhile political activist, thus exonerating himself from having to walk the street to mobilize party supporters.
Nevertheless, it is now accepted that social media can win election, though surveys have shown that it is the candidate that walks the ground at the risk of hurting his ankles who wins elections.
‘Walking the ground’ has been interpreted in so many ways. For example , a public address system rolling through the area announcing a cottage meeting is now interpreted as walking the ground. It is no longer the house to house stopping and listening to the electorate and their concerns.
Today our politicians do not need to have an office day. And why so when you are in opposition? The standard response to everyone is ‘ we are in opposition and don’t have the resources to distribute.’
It is a common sight to see 65 year old people walking the tracks on mornings and evenings. Should they not be stopped and warned of the risk of injuring their ankles? May be, this can be a strategy to mobilize the senior section of the electorate.
Time management is the key to success and failure. And it is the idle who always find excuses to justify their actions and inaction.
How to motivate idlers and non achievers is an envious task for a political leader. These hangers on cannot be driven away. The party needs them to occupy empty seats in rallies.
It is for the political leader to weigh the value of these hangers on. Are they assets or liabilities? I would say they are idle assets to be motivated and put to work. May be the political leader must address this risk of ankle injury to allay their fears. It would also be wise to dangle before their eyes personal opportunities available to them like sitting in boardrooms dressed in jackets and ties and eating with knives and forks, a unique aspect of our colonial heritage that must be preserved.