Oh, Canada! Another election, another disappointment. At least from my perspective. I completely understand that the highest number of Canadians who voted, voted for the Conservatives, resulting in a blue majority, but given what I have heard Harper has done in the past few years (and also what I know he's done while I was still in Canada) I can't help but feel let down. Saddened. And thoroughly gutted by the fact that this election resulted in only 61.4% of Canadians going out and voting, according to Elections Canada. Someone told me that this was the 3rd lowest voter turnout in Canada's history. I wonder why less than 2/3 of Canadians can be bothered to do anything? To voice an opinion? To stand up and be counted?
These days in the media, there are plenty of countries where their people are demonstrating and protesting. Why? To have more power and a say in their government instead of being ruled by dictators. In Canada, where we do have that precious freedom, over 1/3 of us appear to be apathetic. The concept of our right to vote is not seen as important enough for many to bother to get out and make their mark on the ballot paper. It's at times like these where I wonder if it would be best for Canada to adopt a system similar to Australia where if you do not vote you are fined. And the Australian government are good at finding people to pay their fines, as a friend of mine who lives in Britons can attest!
I am off to vote in the UK election on Thursday, including a referendum on electoral reform. Here's to hoping things improve here!
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