'Leadership from God': The ultimate excuse for Ethical Lapses in Leadership?

In today's world, leadership is often intertwined with notions of respect, authority, and divine sanction. Many leaders, whether political, religious, or cultural, invoke a higher power to legitimize their authority and command respect.

However, this notion raises significant moral and ethical questions, especially when leaders deviate from their responsibilities and when the sanctity of institutions and systems is defiled by self-seekers.

This erosion of public goodwill leads to societal conflicts, particularly when leaders act against the interests of the communities they serve.

In Uganda, the controversy surrounding the poorly constructed classroom block at Nkoma Secondary School in Mbale City exemplifies this issue.

Despite clear evidence of substandard work, the building was commissioned by the then Resident District Commissioner (RDC) who dismissed community concerns.

Martin Mudebo, the Sebei Cell chairperson, voiced frustration, noting that despite reporting the poor workmanship, local authorities were more interested in personal gain than addressing the problem.

“We were told we weren't technical enough to judge. The ones you report to are more corrupt,” he said.

This project, worth billions, tendered by the Ministry of Education, was completed in 2015. The lack of accountability for the contractor and consultant, despite the significant loss to the community, points to syndicated corruption.

Moreover, Parliament, that esteemed body meant to ensure transparent governance, has not escaped the taint of corruption.

Allegations abound that decisions within Parliament are swayed by financial incentives.

Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, in a heroic effort to uphold the sanctity of the institution, has castigated the media and citizens for daring to criticise Parliament over corruption allegations.

The Bible, in Ephesians 6:1-3, instructs children to obey and honor their parents for a blessed life.

However, it also advises fathers not to provoke their children to anger but to bring them up with discipline and instruction from the Lord (Ephesians 6:4).

This dual responsibility highlights the need for leaders to act justly and ethically, ensuring their actions do not provoke resentment among those they lead.

Philosopher John Locke argues that government power should derive from the consent of the governed and be exercised for the public good.

When leaders fail in this duty, they forfeit their right to be obeyed. Political analyst Fareed Zakaria also highlights that illiberal democracies, where leaders undermine democratic principles, erode respect and accountability.

Respected sociologist Max Weber suggests that the legitimacy of leaders depends on their ability to uphold the values and systems that justify their authority.

In contemporary society, this means demonstrating fairness, accountability, and a commitment to serving the public good.

Political scientist Francis Fukuyama, in his work "Political Order and Political Decay," argues that the integrity of public institutions is crucial for the stability and development of any nation.

Fukuyama highlights that when institutions fail to uphold ethical standards and accountability, it leads to a decay in political order, undermining democracy and governance.

For democracy to be meaningful, leader’s must show genuine commitment, address the challenges faced by their people, and uphold the rule of law to foster a just and peaceful society.

In a world where leadership is often seen as divinely sanctioned, it is crucial to scrutinize the actions and motives of those in power.

Ensuring leaders are held accountable for their actions is essential for promoting justice and maintaining ethical standards.

This scrutiny helps prevent the misuse of power and ensures that leadership serves the greater good rather than the interests of a privileged few.