When politics betrays conscience
In any flourishing democracy, integrity and truth should form the bedrock of public service.
Yet, increasingly—both in Ghana and across the globe—political landscapes have become stages for double standards, deceit and self-interest.
Politicians frequently project themselves as patriotic and morally grounded, but many betray the very ideals they claim to champion.
Robert Bolt’s acclaimed play, A Man for All Seasons, though set in 16th-century England, remains a timeless reflection on the crisis of conscience and conviction that continues to plague modern governance.
As a teacher of Literature-in-English, I find myself frequently drawn to the thematic richness of this play, which is currently studied by SHS Form Two students in Ghana.
At its heart stands Sir Thomas More—a man of unwavering integrity—who chooses silence over compromising his conscience, refusing to endorse King Henry VIII’s unlawful divorce and self-appointment as the Supreme Head of the Church of England.
Far from being an act of cowardice, More’s silence is a profound and courageous decision to uphold truth over political expediency.
His memorable words, “I die the King’s good servant, but God’s first,” capture the tension between public duty and personal conviction—a tension that remains highly relevant today.
Conscience
One character that powerfully illustrates the betrayal of conscience is Richard Rich. Driven by ambition, Rich perjures himself in exchange for the position of Attorney General for Wales.
This mirrors contemporary political realities, where individuals often compromise truth and integrity for political appointments, contracts or self-preservation.
In such systems, national interest is routinely sacrificed at the altar of personal gain, leaving ordinary citizens to suffer under the weight of corrupt leadership.
Politics of convenience
Equally compelling is the character of Thomas Cromwell, who embodies the politics of convenience.
A shrewd and calculating operator, Cromwell uses the machinery of the state not to promote justice but to entrench power and suppress dissent.
This manipulation of legal and institutional processes finds clear parallels in today’s political environments.
In many democracies, laws are selectively enforced and institutions that should serve the public good are twisted to suit partisan agendas.
Such conduct undermines public trust and corrodes the moral fabric of governance.
Silence
Sir Thomas More’s silence—often misunderstood even by his closest allies—emerges as a potent form of resistance.
In an era dominated by loud rhetoric and performative activism, More’s dignified silence under pressure offers a powerful lesson.
Today, very few leaders are willing to endure personal loss for the sake of principle. Dissenters are frequently marginalised or vilified.
Yet More’s legacy affirms that silence, when born of conviction, can speak volumes.
The play also highlights the chasm between public morality and private corruption, epitomised by King Henry VIII.
The King cloaks his political manoeuvering in the language of conscience, but his true motives are rooted in lust and the desire for absolute power.
This hypocrisy is mirrored in modern political life, where leaders often use moral or religious imagery to gain public trust—only to abandon those values once in office.
Concern
Of particular concern in Ghana’s political space is the alarming inconsistency of rhetoric and values depending on which side of power a person finds themselves.
Many defend one position while in government and argue the complete opposite in opposition.
This flip-flopping betrays a lack of principle and reveals a deeper ethical vacuum.
It breeds public cynicism, erodes democratic culture and undermines long-term national development.
In conclusion, A Man for All Seasons is not just a literary masterpiece—it is a moral compass for our time.
It compels us to rethink what we demand of leadership and what we are willing to tolerate as citizens.
Ghana—and indeed the world—urgently needs leaders who embody integrity, honesty and a genuine commitment to service.
Sir Thomas More’s courage reminds us that conscience is not a luxury, but a necessity for meaningful leadership.
The urgent question we must ask ourselves is this: Will we continue to elevate the Cromwells and Richards of our age, or will we champion those who, like More, choose truth over comfort?
The writer is a tutor,
Adonten SHS.
