Linda McQuaig of the Toronto Star opines today that yes, we should throw the bums out but that we should also reform the system as well. How can you argue with that?
...The arrogant Liberals would taste the public's wrath. A satisfying feeling of having roughed up the bums would prevail in the land — much like it prevailed after we routed Brian Mulroney's former gang in the 1993 election.
But a snap election almost surely won't get to the root of the corruption unveiled through the Gomery inquiry. Worse, a snap election may actually create the illusion — as in 1993 — that the problem is being addressed and dealt with, when it's not.
The problem runs much deeper than a particular set of characters. It has to do with a political system that places inadequate controls over politicians when it comes to money.
Democracy, while good on paper and better than any alternative, can be rendered effectively meaningless if those with money are able to buy influence or special treatment from those in power.
In any system, be it government or corporate, checks and balances need to be in place. Without oversite you are left with Adscam, UN Oil-for-Food or Enron.
