During his election campaign when US President Donald Trump said that he would build a ‘wall’ or put a ban on immigration and would send immigrants back to their country, I thought it was a mere election promise, which, as usual, would be forgotten after the elections.

It was for the first time that I, like many others around the world, was would have not complained if a leader would have not kept his promises.

But the week gone by has seen him make decisions that have shocked everyone around the world. The decision to ban travel from seven Muslim countries left many stranded at the airports, while their families were seen crying and devastated in the hope of seeing their family members.

Trump was slammed for his decision by world leaders and organisations such as Apple, Microsoft, and Facebook saying that they do not support the ban, as immigrants are an integral part of their organisations and they can’t operate and continue to innovate the way they do.

He was chosen by the people of the country, and he is doing what he promised. This makes you think that the end power lies in the hands of the people who are voting in a democratic country. A politician may or may not keep his promises but it the responsibility of the voters to make the right decision.

People have the right to choose who they think will work not only for their rights but everyone’s. It is a decision that will decide what is the future of the country for at least next few years. Hence it is important to make the right decision at the right time.

New Zealanders are going to be in the similar situation in a few months when they will have to decide who will lead their country for the next four years.

With elections come big promises, sops and gambits. It was evident when just a day after revealing the date for this year’s general election, Prime Minister Bill English announced the increase in the number of police—something that people were asking for a long time. Big promises are on offer, seems like the race to the top has already begun.

Considering the increasing crime rate, this boost was long overdue. We would now see 500 more police officers in the community. The opposition parties are calling this move a copy of their policies terming Mr English a follower and not a leader.

More such tempting announcements are expected soon as Mr English would want to prove his worth to be elected as the next prime minister. It is surely going to be an interesting election, National will be contesting in Mr English’s leadership. The last time that happened was in 2002 when he was standing against Labour’s Helen Clark and which is considered National’s worst performance ever.

But it is for New Zealanders to decide who they think can lead them and their country.

Meanwhile, as you enjoy another long weekend, make an effort to know more about the beautiful and diverse Aotearoa, the Waitangi Treaty and its history, and understand how this country has welcomed migrants over the years.

Until next time!