NANAIMO POLITICAL LEADERS - ACCOUNTABLE & RESPONSIBLE

WHERE DOES THE BUCK STOP?

Where Are the Leaders?

As Nanaimo spirals deeper into addiction, mental illness, and public disorder, we must ask: where are the leaders? Not the ribbon-cutters, the press release signers, or the 'task force' creators — but real leaders. The kind who face facts, speak plainly, and take action with courage and resolve. We’re not seeing that in city hall. We’re not seeing it from our MLAs. So the question becomes: who do we hold to account, and when?

A Few Qualities of True Political Leaders

·      Accountable – Faces the consequences of inaction or failed policies. Doesn’t pass blame down or sideways.

·      Transparent – Keeps the public informed with facts, not spin. Explains both successes and failures honestly.

·      Compassionate but firm – Shows empathy for the vulnerable, but doesn't confuse enabling with helping.

·      Responsible – Doesn’t outsource decision-making to bureaucrats or committees.

·      Civic-minded – Puts community stability and safety above ideological or activist demands.

Nanaimo doesn’t need more programs that manage decline. It needs leaders willing to reverse it. Until we demand those qualities from our elected officials — at every level — the crises will continue to grow. Leadership is not about being liked. It’s about being effective. And right now, effectiveness is nowhere to be seen.