THE TALE OF TWO SIBLINGS: THE DAWN OF CHANGE

The land, Kulomva! Its streets, disconcerted, riotous like the hail of a million birds soaring to space. The angry voices of the people echoing rhythms of ‘We are hungry’ so melodiously.

‘You made all this noise,’ the King says, ‘So what’s going to happen next?’

Riot steps forward, his voice stern. ‘What’s going to happen next is not just a solution, but a transformation. We can no longer be ignored, Your Majesty, or this unrest will not end.’

Protest, sensing an opportunity, adds, ‘We believe the key to a thriving kingdom is not domination, but integrity. We must end corruption and favouritism, for it is the source of our current troubles. We are dying one by one like plagued chickens.’

The King, curious but not fully convinced, listens as Protest and Riot continue their plea.

‘We can accuse each other, we can point fingers, but the question is, who is actually better off?’ Riot interjects, ‘Humanity might have long disappeared like smoke, but we are better off together, and that means the people must have a say in their governance. We demand a system that serves everyone, not just the privileged few.’

Protest nods in agreement. ‘We need to establish a functional structure. Dominating people is not working for us.’

The wise man, having accompanied Protest and Riot, chimes in, ‘Your Majesty, the people of this kingdom are tired, but they are not weak. They are ready to govern themselves and take control of their own destiny. We need a protector, not a ruler. For the sake of our kingdom, we must move forward.’

Riot, ever the forceful one, his voice sharp as a blade, adds, ‘Force is always necessary if our voices drain down the Nile.’

The King, thoughtfully considering their words, asks, ‘So what is it that you suggest?’

Protest, eyes shining with conviction, replies, ‘A new system, one that puts power in the hands of the people. A group which will play vital roles to ensure justice and peace in our land.’

She proceeds, ‘An advocate to bridge the people and the government. An activist to gather evidence and speak against injustice. A networker to grow our cause. A mobiliser to care for the people and build a culture of kindness. We need the police for security, to keep us safe while we are on the move, and not to harm us. We need recruiters to educate our people about their rights and obligations. We also propose a council, made up of representatives from each region of our kingdom. They will gather and make decisions for the kingdom, with each region having an equal voice.’

The King seems unconvinced, ‘And you believe this will work? What makes you think this council will be any better than what we have now?’

Riot cuts in, his voice filled with disdain, 'Oh, you mean those fat cats? The trust between the government and the people has completely eroded.

Either they all resign, and sadly it means we depose you too, our King, or… and by the way, Your Majesty, when people have a stake in their governance, they will protect it fiercely.’

The sister, Protest, fearing her brother's rash words may endanger their cause, interjects, her voice pleading. ‘Please, Your Majesty, my brother's anger stems from his deep love for our people. However, the main message he is trying to convey is that trust has to be rebuilt.'

The wise man, ever the voice of reason, and speaking from his years of experience and insight, offered a bold suggestion. 'To truly address the ills plaguing our society, we must begin with our leaders. Let us cut their pay and benefits by half, at local, regional, and central levels. The money thus saved can be transparently declared and used to better the lives of our citizens.’

The crowd began to buzz with the possibilities that the wise man's proposal presented. They discussed how the money could be used to alleviate poverty, provide better healthcare, and tackle hunger. Some argued that investing in agricultural infrastructure would create more jobs and make food more affordable for everyone. Others suggested setting up a fund that would provide regular aid to families in need.

The brother and sister watched, captivated by the energy of the discussion. 'Our people have been burdened for too long,’ the sister whispered to her brother.

The wise man, continuing his thoughtful advice, added, ‘Your Majesty, if this can be sustained for a year, it might rebuild public trust in government’.

The King, clearly interested in this new idea, takes a moment to consider their words. Finally, he stands, ‘Very well. I am intrigued by your proposal and willing to consider it. But know this, any council will still need a strong leader, someone who can guide them and keep them in check.’

‘Your Majesty,’ Protest says, ‘We suggest a council, but we also believe much more must be done. We must address the farmers’ insecurity and allow them to return to their farms. Encouraging importation by reducing customs duties can alleviate the high prices we face due to shortages. But corruption is also a major issue. To bring out the best in society, we need leaders who are principled and disciplined. The judiciary must be strengthened to punish offenders and prevent those with criminal cases from holding office. The government should be transparent, with clear procedures and consequences for wrongdoing. If someone is mistreated or if a rule is not followed, they should be able to appeal to a higher authority.’

Riot nods firmly, ‘We must no longer accept empty promises and vague assurances. We must be relentless in holding our leaders accountable. Look at our neighbouring land; they have a gold refinery that adds value to their country. Why can’t we have the same?’

‘We are beginning to bury our heads in the sand, ostrich-like, as our mocked-mouthed, anxious neighbouring lands look on. We demand real change.’

Protest, her eyes burning with determination, continues, ‘It’s time for real change, Your Majesty. We, the people, are willing to work with you, but we need action. We are hungry. We need swift and decisive action to end our suffering and secure a brighter future for our kingdom. Together, we can build a land where integrity and justice are upheld, and the voices of the people are heard and respected.’

The King, now fully engaged in their conversation, replies, ‘Your words are powerful, Protest. I hear your cries for justice, and I am moved. I will convene a meeting with my advisors and the council to discuss these matters. We will take your proposals seriously and consider how best to implement them.’

As the King turns to leave, Riot shouts, his voice echoing through the walls, 'Whatever your leaders refuse to do in peace, we, the people, will get them to do it by force!'

Protest, panicking, quickly covers Riot's mouth and drags him out of the King's court. 'Forgive my brother's passion, Your Majesty,' she pleads, 'He means well, but sometimes his heart speaks faster than his mind.'

The King, amused yet thoughtful, watches them leave. 'Very well, Protest,' he says softly, 'I will consider all that has been said. Kulomva must rise again!'

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?Uduak Eti

Soji Apampa Integrity Organization Limited. (Gte.) Convention on Business Integrity

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