Introduction: The Dual Reality of Political Power
In the quest for political power, parties often mobilize a wide range of supporters with varying motivations, expectations, and levels of commitment. However, once power is won and the spoils are distributed, an unsettling paradox emerges—one that reveals the inequality and disillusionment deeply embedded in the system of political reward. This paradox lies in the unequal distribution of benefits and burdens, creating two distinct categories of beneficiaries with vastly different outcomes.
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The Privileged Minority: Power, Positions, and Prosperity
The first category comprises a domineering and well-connected elite, often composed of political insiders, financiers, family members, and long-time allies of those at the top. These individuals are rewarded handsomely after victory. They receive:
Lucrative government appointments (e.g., ministers, CEOs of state agencies, ambassadors).
Access to state contracts and financial privileges.
Influence over policy decisions.
Opportunities to build generational wealth.
Example:
In many developing democracies, it is not uncommon to see a single family or network of cronies occupying multiple powerful positions across ministries and agencies. Their proximity to the “throne” guarantees them both visibility and financial advantage, regardless of their actual contribution to the party’s grassroots mobilization.
The Forgotten Majority: Sacrifice Without Reward
The second group is made up of committed foot soldiers, grassroots mobilizers, and die-hard propagandists. These are the ones who:
Work tirelessly to promote the party’s image.
Sacrifice personal resources and risk safety in hostile territories.
Serve as polling agents, communicators, and protectors of the party’s interest on the ground.
Yet, despite their sacrifice, their reward is often not recognition or elevation, but insults, neglect, ridicule, and even shame. They are used and discarded, remembered only during election seasons or when their loyalty is questioned.
Example:
Consider the party youth organizer who traverses dangerous villages to canvas votes or the radio communicator who loses friendships and employment for passionately defending party policies. After victory, such individuals may not even be granted audience with local leaders, let alone national appointments.
The Post-Power Blame Game
Ironically, when the political party loses power—often due to internal discontent, poor governance, and mismanagement by the privileged minority—blame is shifted to the very people who had little or nothing. The elite accuse the workhorses of:
Failing to “do enough” to retain power.
Being disloyal or lazy.
Lacking initiative or competence.
This scapegoating adds insult to injury, as those who were shut out of the benefits of power are now burdened with the guilt of losing it.
The Core Paradox: You Cannot Give What You Do Not Have
At the heart of this entire scenario lies the true paradox: “No matter how generous you are, you cannot give what you do not have.” The grassroots members, having received neither money, position, nor access, are unjustly expected to offer the same level of sacrifice indefinitely. Morale dwindles, and bitterness grows.
Conclusion: Towards a Fairer Power Equation
The paradox of power is a sobering lesson in political engagement. For any political movement to endure and inspire loyalty, there must be equity in reward, transparency in opportunity, and recognition of effort across all levels. Until then, the vicious cycle of exploitation, resentment, and blame will continue to undermine even the strongest of political parties.
