Dear Sir,

I tend to take persons at their word. Of course, it does not mean every word they say is true, but the courtesy must be given.

Even though there are times when, for example, established alcoholics swear they have quit drinking and even believe they have, we give the benefit of doubt as encouragement in spite of the many times they have lapsed.

The principle is that it is better to be slightly taken by a dishonest person, than to prejudice an innocent one.

Every now and then, a country needs a healthy little dose of megalomania and Marc Bean announces his intention to introduce anti-corruption measures if he forms the next government.

He takes the biblical stance of “All before me are robbers and thieves” and throws the gauntlet across the floor.

His remarks come in the wake of a damning auditor’s report, but notwithstanding.

If there was a true jury established to judge the integrity of House members, I wonder how many would be left worthy to stand?

The Bermuda public are not just tired of the corruption, they are feeling the pain as a result of it. Nor are the Bermuda public blind and solely focused on thoughts of corruption.

This evolved public, who live in the hopes of a brighter world for everyone, also know there are those who have no history of ever promoting inclusiveness; those who live with an elitist mindset hinged to an era that should have long past.

Corruption robs us and destroys opportunity, while elitism in this highly interdependent society fosters a form of genocide that causes the weaker members to self-destruct.

The public adamantly wish none of the above. So the big question is not whether or not Mr Bean is serious. But who is going to make it happen?

We all remember the “I’m just a cog in the wheel” line. In spite of the best intentions, we don’t need him to become another cog.

We need real leadership to come forward to build that anti-corruption muscle he talks about; leadership that has integrity and knowhow, with a direction that can bring all the people of this country to a better place.

It was done in Jamaica. The last election was won by a team and a leader on an anti-corruption platform. It was a shocker, but it happened.

The real issue in Bermuda politics falls around the principle of representation.

At present, the mindset is narrow and intentionally serving opposite ends of the spectrum. They do this in spite of the reality of every sector needing representative leadership.

The problem is convincing these neo-oligarchs that to lead is truly to represent all.

This country is not meant to satisfy labour, or to satisfy the wealthy like a game of see-saw — take as much as I can when its my turn for my ilk, then if and when you get it, take it for yours.

This is a country with one people, all of whom need it and therefore need representation and someone best get the message and begin to look like they are ready to provide it for everyone.

That’s the only way Mr Bean’s words will take fruition.

KHALID WASI