By George Ozalla
Viewpoint
Having capable, honest, and well-qualified aides and technical assistants is crucial for elected officials and other high-profile individuals. These aides serve as the backbone of support, enabling leaders to make informed decisions, manage their time effectively, and maintain a positive public image.
Incompetent, dishonest, and unqualified aides can have devastating consequences. They create barriers between leaders and their constituents, presenting the principal as inaccessible, mean, or wicked. This negative perception can damage the leader’s reputation and public image.
Dishonest aides may hijack important documents, such as letters, and fail to deliver them to the intended recipient. This lack of accountability can lead to missed opportunities, delayed responses, and a breakdown in communication. Some aides may even tamper with the positive outcomes of letters or requests, cornering money or benefits intended for others.
The importance of integrity and competence cannot be overstated. When appointing aides and technical assistants, leaders must prioritize integrity and honesty. Surrounding themselves with people of strong character ensures that their interests are protected and their reputation is maintained.
As Lord Acton said, “Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Wayward characters can pose a significant threat to an office holder’s success and public perception. They may frustrate efforts of genuine individuals who want to support the leader, blocking access or demanding bribes.
Some aides may lack the intellectual capacity to perform their duties effectively, relying on manipulation and coercion instead. Leaders must be cautious when appointing aides, ensuring they possess necessary skills, knowledge, and integrity.
Unfortunately, some aides extort money from those seeking to meet with their principals, including the less privileged and those in anguish. They may kill brilliant ideas or hijack them for personal gain, making them agents of frustration and incompetence.
As Nelson Mandela said, “A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination.” Leaders must recognize that accessibility, kindness, and empathy are essential qualities for effective leadership. By being kind and approachable, leaders can build trust and create a positive work environment.
Building walls around people in positions of power can be counterproductive, leading to feelings of isolation and disconnection. Instead, leaders should prioritize building bridges and fostering positive relationships.
Poor leadership can have severe consequences, including a toxic work environment, damaged reputation, and legal consequences. As Mahatma Gandhi said, “The world has enough for everyone’s need, but not enough for everyone’s greed.” Leaders must prioritize integrity, honesty, and transparency when appointing aides.
Kindness, empathy, and approachability are essential qualities for office holders and their aides. By prioritizing these values, leaders can build bridges, foster positive relationships, and maintain a strong reputation. This, in turn, can lead to a more effective and responsive leadership, ultimately benefiting the organization, leaders themselves, constituents, and the community at large.
Ozalla is the Managing Editor of Newscount
Managing Director: Zalchukz Multi Concerns Limited
Vice President: Advocacy for Change Initiative (ACI)
Director: Business Development AABV Global Limited
