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Authority - To Embody Service

Adv. Jijo Thomas Placheril Adv. Jijo Thomas Placheril
03 Mar 2025

Most individuals are born into families where the father typically assumes the role of the head of the household. This position of authority is generally acknowledged by all family members, even in cases where the mother may have a higher income than the father.

There is a similar dynamic in society, where individuals are subject to those considered figures of authority. Within any organisation, a hierarchical structure is evident, with a leader or director overseeing the operations of a particular department. The ultimate responsibility for the department rests with this individual at the pinnacle of the hierarchy.


 

When considering a nation's government, there is a supreme authority elected by the public, either directly or indirectly, through a process. This individual acts as the principal leader or commander of the country, and the government is organised hierarchically.

Everyone aspires to ascend to the top of the organisational hierarchy upon selecting a career. It is widely recognised that the individual occupying the highest position wields significant power, commanding the respect and obedience of all department members.

Subordinates are expected to adhere to their superior's directives. Indeed, the leader or head of any organisation possesses greater authority than other members.

However, this elevated status comes with increased responsibilities. They are ultimately accountable for the institution and must bear the moral responsibility for any errors their subordinates commit. They are also duty-bound to ensure that the institution operates in compliance with both the civil laws of the land and the specific regulations governing the organisation. Furthermore, they are entrusted with the authority to prevent any unlawful activities their subordinates conduct within the institution.

The person in a position of authority must possess the moral fortitude to enforce strict measures against those who violate laws and institutional policies. Additionally, they should express humility by recognising subordinates' mistakes as their own. They must also attribute success to the entire team, acknowledging that it is the collective effort of their colleagues.

Moreover, they should prioritise listening over speaking, actively engage with the concerns and challenges faced by those around them, and strive to find effective solutions. Timely and appropriate decision-making is crucial for their department or institution; any indecision could adversely affect its operations. They must remain impartial, avoiding any form of bias or favouritism.

A key responsibility of a leader is to provide consistent feedback to subordinates. They should closely monitor their activities and offer constructive corrections when necessary. A leader who hesitates to provide corrections out of fear of losing favour with subordinates is unfit for the role.

The authority should remain receptive to suggestions and be equipped with plans and visions that promote the institution's best interests, implementing these with the team's support. Ultimately, the role of a leader is not to dominate but to guide others toward the right path, fostering the potential of subordinates for the overall benefit of the institution or department. The authority should embody the true spirit of service.

The majority of our government institutions and departments are currently plagued by corruption. Unfortunately, our nation's legislative and executive leaders are turning a blind eye to this issue. It has become increasingly evident that without offering a bribe, one cannot expect any work to be accomplished or any files to be progressed within government offices. These institutions have transformed into mechanisms that exploit the public.

Our officials appear "oblivious" to the corruption that permeates these departments. The adage, "Physician, heal thyself," is particularly relevant here. The leaders must first address the corruption within their own departments before they can effectively serve the public. Your allegiance should lie not with corrupt officials but with the citizens you represent.

While we, the common people, respect and acknowledge your authority, you may intimidate those beneath you. Are you perhaps also receiving a significant portion of the bribes?

When corruption exists within a government department, the executive head bears vicarious liability, as the actions of subordinates reflect upon their leadership. If a citizen is denied their rights due to lack of bribery, the executive head must admit moral liability for this infringement.

Tolerance for errant officials and lawbreakers is unacceptable. Will our leaders have the courage to take decisive action? We can only hope for service-oriented and brave leaders at the highest levels of governance to eradicate corruption and immoralities from government departments.

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