We the People

 

 

We the people

But the people did not vote,

That there was no public consultation

Is a matter we should note.

 

A people that were disenfranchised

For centuries even,

To the extent that even today

Many are still feeling threatened.

 

A people, let me emphasized,

That faced an uncertain future,

That had little or no hope,

So grim was the picture.

 

But a people, however,

That have come a mighty long way

That are politically enfranchised

And can now have a say.

 

 

Free and fair elections,

A seamless change of Governments,

A lot of hot air blowing

But with no violent intent.

 

Feverish and fervent campaigning

With everyone having a say

But finally abiding by the majority,

This is the people’s way.

 

I said all of that to say this

Regarding the proposed Charter,

Let us not renege on best practices

And become the butt of laughter.

 

Who proposed this Charter?

And where are the people in this?

What was the extent of due process?

There must have been a list.

 

Are the check boxes being ticked?

And where at present the process?

Is the document signed and stamped

With no possibility for redress?

 

Republic Day just days off

Seems like a foregone conclusion,

President elected, date confirmed

But “we the people”? An illusion.

 

We the Government, it should be,

The people had no say,

This proposed Charter could be law,

Is this the new way?

 

We the people?

No, we must wheel and come again!

In God I hope we still trust,

Let's keep Him in the frame.

 

Stewart Russell © November 20, 2021