I did not vote for the first round nor will i for the secound round of the French presidential elections. Here is why.
I voted for the past 25 years at most of the elections. For the past 25 years, France has been bugged by the same challenges, with little done to move the country to a new frontier. As a result, it gets tougher to change this country which relies on the civil code drafted by Napoleon in the early 1800, with social benefits given as rewards to some categories after 1945 and with a “monarchal” constitution drafted for Charles de Gaulle early 1960’s. Strong foundations do not prevent us from doing some remodeling occasionnally.
Under the leaderships of French presidents Mitterand and Chirac, both the right and the left have played a game of satisfying lobbies and of keeping a status quo at all cost. Chirac has left the country in a terrible stalemate while he had full power for the past 5 years. Granted, it must be quite a task to run a country. But after all, if this is their mission, if they build around them a performing team and if their vision is strong enough, why should they give in.
Todays’ candidates lust for power and deliver messages which are targetted to gaining additional votes. I accept that. With a limit which Segolene Royal crossed with her faked anger in a debate on handicaps or when she delivers warning of violence to the country if Sarkozy gets elected. As well, the promotional film built by Sarkozy’s supporters about the rescue of the 21 kids kept as hostages blurs the lines between information and distateful propaganda.
No matter who gets in power, the administration – civil servants and nationwide leaders – will remain the same. They run the country. I actually acknowledge that the 2 finanlists have different visions.
Who will really make change happen?
I believe that people will make change happen. No need to put a king’s head on a pike. But usage of technologies in small businesses, impact of the worldwide internet, knowledge, competitiveness from fellow european and world countries, immigration and melting cultures, investments, european integration, leaders in their fields, unions have a daily impact. They make things happen, things which have shown value. I trust that.
I like to act where i can make a difference.
Ooops, have to go…. my wife is coming back from voting…