Jason Heale, Communications Manager at independent think-thank Maxim Institute in Auckland New Zealand

Asking the Right Questions of Our Leaders

By Jason Heale May 31, 2023

Today, more than ever, our society is deeply divided.

Recent news articles would have you believe that elections are popularity contests. Who’s the preferred Prime Minister? One is up, and the other’s down. One likes sausage rolls, and the other seems a bit “out of step with most New Zealanders.” Given this narrative, it is easy to fall into the trap of favouring candidates based on likability or personal rapport. Leadership is, however, much more than that; it is, as Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery said, the ability to “rally men and women to a common purpose and the character which inspires confidence.” When we vote in the next election, we must ask ourselves: Are we choosing the person/party we like the most, or who will truly excel at the job?

Today, more than ever, our society is deeply divided. Meaningful discussions on critical issues seem elusive as we count the “sins” of our candidates for being white, male, Christian, or young, and “woke.” We are rooting for “our team” on these reductive assessments alone.

In reality, competence is a crucial attribute that every leader must possess. Does what they do actually work? Do they make U-turns? Are they consistent? A competent leader demonstrates an ability to gather information, analyse multiple perspectives, and weigh the consequences of their choices, both in the short and long term. This competency in decision-making fosters stability, ensures effective policy implementation, and safeguards the nation’s and its citizens’ interests.

Choosing competence and character ensures that our elected leaders possess the necessary skills to govern effectively, make sound decisions, and tackle the complexities of our times.

Equally vital is character. Our MP’s and Prime Minister’s character shapes our country’s ethical climate. When leaders exemplify integrity, transparency, and accountability, they cultivate a society where fairness and the rule of law are upheld. Such moral leadership nurtures harmony, justice, and a sense of civic responsibility.

And we play a role too. It is incumbent upon us as citizens to critically evaluate our leaders and hold them to account based on their competence and character. As we participate in the democratic process, we bear the responsibility of shaping the destiny of our nation and its people. This is important, and it’s easy to forget.

Choosing competence and character ensures that our elected leaders possess the necessary skills to govern effectively, make sound decisions, and tackle the complexities of our times. So as we approach this election, let’s set aside partisan biases and superficial popularity and demand leaders who are capable, knowledgeable, and ethically grounded. Doing so will pave the way for a brighter future.

As we vote in this election, let’s value leaders who will inspire trust, fairness, and justice… not simply mere popularity.

Leading in the military is considered to be “at the coalface” of leadership, so let’s finish with a quote from another general. Norman Schwarzkopf once said, “Leadership is a potent combination of strategy and character.” As we vote in this election, let’s value leaders who will inspire trust, fairness, and justice… not simply mere popularity.

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Jason Heale, Communications Manager at independent think-thank Maxim Institute in Auckland New Zealand

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