Article discusses 5 essential qualities needed to become a good politician Jayadeva de Silva

1. Top 5 Qualities of Good Political Leaders
Jayadeva de Silva
SriLanka is getting ready for a crucial general election. For a long time we have
been agitating for nomination of clean competent candidates by the political
parties
Deciding which candidate to vote into office is simply a matter of party affiliation for many
people. Others, however, cast their votes based on specific characteristics they look for in their
candidate of choice. So what are the qualities or characteristics good political leaders should
possess? Here are the top 5 characteristics of some of the world’s most successful political
leaders.
Honesty
Being honest can sometimes be difficult because it makes individuals vulnerable. It reveals who
we really are and discloses our mistakes, which gives others the opportunity to criticize or reject
openly. Honesty develops character and builds credibility and trust, which are the foundation to
evoke confidence and respect from those around you, and in the case of political leaders,
teammates and constituents.
Compassion
Compassion is the humane quality of understanding the suffering of others and wanting to do
something to alleviate that suffering. While many see compassion as a weakness, true
compassion is a characteristic that converts knowledge to wisdom. Good political leaders use
compassion to see the needs of those he or she leads and to determine the course of action that
would be of greatest benefit to all those involved.
Integrity
The word integrity is defined as ‘the adherence to moral and ethical principles; the soundness of
moral character.’ It is a synonym for honesty and uprightness, and is a vital characteristic for
those in political leadership. Political leaders who possess integrity can be trusted because he or
she never veers from inner values, even when it might benefit them to do so. A leader must have
the trust of followers. This requires the highest standard of integrity.
Confidence
Having confidence in a political leader is about having faith or belief that he or she will act in a
right, proper, or effective way. A good political leader needs to be both confident in himself or
herself as well in their ability to lead. Leaders who possess this quality inspire others, drawing
on a level of trust which sparks the motivation to get others on board and get the job done.

2. Flexibility
Flexibility for a political leader is about understanding the give-and-take aspects of politics, and
the ability to find the common ground. Good politicians listen carefully to all sides, to not only
hear their arguments but to especially learn what it will take on behalf of all parties involved to
reach a consensus. This characteristic allows political leaders to recognize setbacks and criticism,
to learn from them and move forward.
Great political leaders have all of these qualities - and more. Each aspires to respect different
views, analyze problems, and identify the best solutions - not based on loyalty to political party,
but rather based on what is good and right and in the best interest of the nation as a whole.
---------------------------
For Humantalents Group