In a message dated 2/26/00 7:15:25 AM Central Standard Time, [log in to unmask]
writes:

<< We are convinced that
 real change must come from below and that change must be a conscious one.
 The people must see the need for change; they must know what the change
 entails; they must want the end result of the change and they must support
 the means to bring it about before there can be real change. This is why we
 devoted our whole programme to sensitisation rather than giving priority to
 campaigning for votes. We want the votes to be preceded by awareness. May be
 we are just pioneers. May be we are just to give the limited knowledge we
 have for others to learn more and give more. >>
********************************************************
Halifa,

This statement says it all, because I also believe that if the change does
not come about in the manner described here, then we are just fooling
ourselves. For too long we as a people have been subject to so much
manipulation, coercion and deception by politicians just for the vote, and
then we go back to the drawing board always with nothing gained. People
themselves have to thoroughly understand that they have a voice, can make a
difference and that those they choose to lead them are chosen because they
can and will do the job, or they can be replaced.The ultimate goal is the
welfare of the nation and every citizen. They have to understand every aspect
of their situation, and how the political choices they make will influence
the outcome of that situation, and that this is how societies shape their own
destinities, and not by just sittiing back and complaining, or by constantly
choosing the lesser of the evils put before them, always believing that they
are helpless and cannot possibly have a voice that makes a difference.
If those who say they aspire to serve the best interest of the people do not
understand that their ultimate goal is to work solely towards helping them to
reach these goals , then they are engaged in just fulfilling a senseless
quest for power at the expense of the people.

Jabou Joh

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