Correspondent
Shillong, Nov 12 (NPN): Acclaimed South African author and Booker Prize winner Damon Galgut on Thursday said that while citizens largely accept that politicians break their word, certain unfulfilled pledges have a disastrous impact on people.
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the sixth Shillong Literary Festival, Galgut, who won the Booker Prize for his novel The Promise, noted that politicians worldwide often make extravagant pledges that are so hard to believe that voters soon realize they are unrealistic.
“Politicians throw out those cheap promises all the time and they break those promises all the time. So, people are very cynical and probably don’t expect better. But, of course, some promises are really, really significant, and the failure to deliver is calamitous for people, “he said.
Citing the stark example of South Africa, Galgut pointed out that following the end of apartheid, political leaders promised a brighter future for citizens, a pledge that was hardly kept, resulting in a devastating effect on the public.
He further observed that the recent midterm election results in the United States of America demonstrated voters’ growing bitterness over unfulfilled commitments.
“So, it can be very consequential for the government. If you make a promise, even in a casual political way, you should be serious about it,” Galgut said.
Commenting on the shifting global political landscape, including India, the author noted a steady rise of the political right, with some administrations transforming into ‘despotic or authoritarian governments.’
Reflecting specifically on India, Galgut remarked that the ‘atmosphere has changed’ since his inaugural visit to the country in 1999.
“It was very noticeable to me the last time I was here that people were afraid to express opinions, and I found that very disturbing,’ he added.