The Need For Integrity For National Development

1. The Need For Integrity For National Development

   By Mike Yawe

The word character is derived from the Greek word Charattein meaning to engrave.

Engraving process in this context is the development of a person’s character which requires courage and transparency, an embodiment of integrity.

The Webster dictionary defines integrity as “adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character and honesty.

Most times, character comes to light when one is under pressure.

Character and integrity are not gifts, they are developed by choice.

Integrity therefore is a state of moral principles, being upright, honest and sincere.

Ethical principles are not flexible as anytime a person breakça moral principle, they create a small crack in the foundation of one’s integrity. Integrity also means doing the right thing when nobody is watching.

For instance, what is sometimes referred to as a little lie or theft, affects integrity irrespective of the amount or person involved.

What one does in the dark or lonely corner is an indication of one’s level of integrity or character Basic traits of integrity include but are not limited to taking responsibility for one’s actions, Putting others’ needs above their own, offering to help others in need, giving others the benefit of the doubt, being honest in all things, Showing respect to everyone and manifesting humility.

For a nation to develop, its rulers must have integrity and character.

To be of good character an individual’s habits, actions and emotional responses should be united and directed towards the moral and the good of all, such that public actions are not separated from private actions.

Integrity is not defined by circumstances or qualifications, because two persons may grow up in the same environment but one may have integrity while the other may not.

Character comes from who a person is and not the titles or position he or she heameer hold.

Attributes of integrity includes consistency of character, honesty, transparency, selflessness and were, when honesty was communication, humility, mediocrity is now being celebrated.

A society will leaders and followers do not possess the appropriate enable them get committed to societal and democratic Integrity and character do not apply only to individuals but also trustworthiness.

Unfortunately, times celebrated but sadly not develop if the amely to government and institutions.

Aristotle, the Greek philosopher- defined good character as “the life of right conduct right conduct in relation to oneself”.

Former United States President, Barrack Obama in a campaign speech in 2008 said “Change will not come if the people wait for some other person or if the people wait for some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for.

“We are the change that we seek”.

Therefore, national development is a task that must be done and every citizen has the obligation to live in honesty, positive character and integrity.

Edited By Grace Namiji