Man’s gregarious instinct leads us to live in society and, the social contract that Jean-Jacques Rousseau spoke of is the channel through which we organize ourselves to manage that society. The management of the "res publica", the public thing, runs through the choice of a political system. In our Western societies, the predominant system is democracy.
A fundamental principle of democracy, however, is that power is not eternal. It is entrusted for a limited time. Alternation therefore allows ideas and projects to be renewed. Knowing how to leave is also a way of respecting the will of the citizens. It means leaving others the possibility of putting forward their vision, of bringing their own contribution. The passing of the torch is an important stage, one that must take place in serenity and mutual respect. The general interest must come before personal ambition. That is how we recognize the true servants of the State, of the community or of any other organized collectivity.
Democracy does indeed rest on the alternation of power. An elected mandate is a service rendered to the collectivity, not an acquired right. Knowing how to leave at the right moment is essential to the common good. Clinging to power beyond the mandate granted by the citizens is a sign of weakness, not of strength. A true leader knows how to prepare his succession and how to encourage new talent to emerge. Making room for fresh ideas and new energies is what allows a society to move forward. It is by accepting the verdict of the ballot box and by ensuring a peaceful transition that one shows one’s attachment to democracy. In many Black circles, the first is sometimes easy, but the second is a genuine mountain to climb. Pulling the strings from the shadows seems to be the favourite sport of a good many former leaders.
The responsibility of an elected official is immense, and it demands courage and discernment. To lead is to make enlightened choices, sometimes difficult ones, for the common good. The mandate entrusted by the people calls for attentive listening and determined action. But the time of a mandate is limited; that is the very nature of the office. Once it is over, it is healthy to know how to hand over, to let other voices speak. The renewal of ideas is essential to the vitality of a community. Making room for new perspectives is also a form of courage and of wisdom. That is how a rich and promising collective future gets built.
And so, when you are a former president, you advise but you do not make the decisions. One can guide without interfering. The wisdom gathered over the years can shed light on present choices. Experience allows one to offer a unique and precious perspective. It is important to share what one knows with humility and respect. The aim is to serve the common good, without seeking to impose one’s will. The role of adviser calls for discretion and measure. The objective is to contribute positively, in complete impartiality.
At some point, one has to know how to withdraw with elegance. When you have had your hour of glory, there is no need to try to step back under the spotlights. It is seemly to make room for others, for we have had our time. In this vein, the experts advise enjoying your retirement, going fishing, gardening, and doing something useful! Staying in the background is sometimes the best way to serve the general interest. Newly elected officials do not necessarily need their elders to run everything; they are quite capable of taking over. So why not keep a low profile and let others decide?
After holding a position of power, it is crucial to show restraint. Clinging to the front of the stage can harm the transition and give the impression of a refusal to pass on the baton. It is vital to leave the new leaders the space they need to establish their own vision and their own direction. Intervening constantly, or trying to dictate decisions after one’s departure, can create confusion and undermine the authority of one’s successors. A gracious withdrawal and a discreet presence allow a harmonious transfer of power and bear witness to a deep respect for institutions.
It is important to know when to speak and when to remain discreet. Experience often brings a certain wisdom. Discernment is crucial once you have held an important position. One can guide without governing. Respect for institutions is paramount. History teaches us the value of restraint. Silence can be more powerful than words. The new generation deserves to be left its place, so that it can freely bring its own frank contribution.
All in all, the period after power is a period of detachment, one in which you have to have faith in those who follow. It is entirely possible to advise, to influence without showing off, without stirring or roaring.
And if some of the old guard are incapable of it, they can take up the process again and reconquer power in order to assert their vision, once more.
We should not lose sight of the fact that we must live and let live, for in the time of the elders, the newcomers were not there to disturb them. So let them not come and bother the newcomers either.
Here, the principle is quite simple:
Let yourself be invited.
Do not come uninvited.
If they call you, come.
If they ignore you, stay home.
If you are satisfied, applaud.
If you are dissatisfied, come back.
M. Z.
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