August 23 polls: Vote with your conscience

Opinion by Makosi B Musambasi

Abuja- ZIMBABWE goes to the polls on August 23 and like President Emmerson Mnangagwa said, the environment has been peaceful thus far.

Free and fair elections are a crucial aspect of any democratic society. They provide citizens with the opportunity to have a say in the governance and direction of their country. However, the responsibility of voting goes beyond simply casting a ballot. It requires thoughtful consideration and voting with one’s conscience.

Voting with your conscience means making a decision based on your personal values, beliefs, and principles. It means taking the time to research and understand the candidates and their policies, and evaluating how they align with your own vision for the future. This process requires critical thinking and a willingness to look beyond party affiliations or popular opinions.

When we vote with our conscience, we are not just considering our own immediate interests but also the long-term consequences of our choices. We are mindful of the impact our vote will have on issues such as social justice, economic equality, environmental sustainability, and human rights. We recognize that our vote is not just a reflection of our individual preferences but a collective decision that can shape the course of our society.

Voting with your conscience also means standing up for what you believe in, even if it goes against the prevailing narrative or the influence of powerful interests. It means not succumbing to the pressures of conformity, but rather staying true to your convictions. It may require courage and resilience to vote against the popular opinion or to support a candidate who may not be favored by the majority, but it is a necessary step towards a more inclusive and representative democracy.

Moreover, voting with your conscience is not just about the act of voting itself but also about participating in the broader democratic process. It involves engaging in discussions, debates, and activism that promote informed decision-making and hold elected officials accountable. It means advocating for transparency, fairness, and integrity in the electoral system.

In conclusion, voting with your conscience is a fundamental aspect of being an active and responsible citizen. It is a way to have a meaningful impact on the future of your country and the well-being of its citizens. By voting based on your values, beliefs, and principles, you contribute to the strength and legitimacy of the democratic process. So, my fellow Zimbabweans, as elections approach, take the time to reflect, research, and vote with your conscience, for it is through this conscious choice that we can shape a better future for all.

Makosi B Musambasi writes in her own capacity.She is a
Certified Life Coach, television personality and founder of Sister’s Keepers Foundation .

She is based in Abuja, Nigeria