POLITICAL DYNASTY

Political dynasty has always been an issue in our country. In fact, there have been several
attempts to pass laws in order to address this pressing issue but none was successfully passed up to this
moment. A political dynasty is said to be present when there are members of the same family occupying
elected positions either in sequence for the same position, or simultaneously across different positions
(Mendoza, et. al, 2013)

Many of us are against political dynasty. But looking into the brighter side, in my opinion,
political dynasty may actually be beneficial to the people and to the whole nation too.

One of the advantages of this is that since the sons, wives or any other members of the family in
government positions have enough background on politics and well-versed in governance, they know how
to take care and deal with people. Knowing what to do when leading people is a huge factor and this
actually helps in becoming a great leader.

People often say that political dynasties only end up in corruption of the country, but those in
political dynasties may even know better for the country. Not only have they managed the country for
years, seeing everything they could improve on, they also may continue the things those who have come
before them wasn’t able to do or finish. They would be able to continue the legacy that their family has
left.
People say that dynasties inherently evil, I believe otherwise. In fact, some are actually the reason
as to why a specific province or city prospered. Another good point is the statement of Mayor Mary Jane
Ortega in an interview, “It is not an issue. Why punish people who deliver? It is not an issue if you are in
power for a long time. It is not actually the length of service. It is the quality of service that you give”.

People have the power to choose. It is them who will vote for whoever they want. If the people do
not want to vote for a candidate who is related to another official, they may do so. The fact that political
dynasties lasts for more than one generation only strengthens the reality that political dynasties, amidst all
criticisms, manage to serve the best interests and well-being of the people. If people believe that members
of certain family can bring forth the life they deserve, let them. It is not political dynasty. It is an exercise
of democratic citizenship.

In addition, if a candidate is prohibited by not allowing them to run just because they are related
to another politician, it is clearly depriving them (the politician) of their right to run for election.
Assuming, for arguments sake, that the political dynasties impose great risk of corruption and threat to the
interest of the society, the state should not totally ban or prohibit it. They may limit but they cannot totally
prohibit.

In summary, I believe that there is nothing wrong with political dynasty as long as those who are
seated in the government serves the people right and continues to work for the betterment of the society.
Now, it really depends on the people. We must exercise wisely our right to vote. We must think twice or
even thrice in choosing our leaders who could best serve the interest of the people.