"5th time's a charm" they say

 

On November 1st, for the FIFTH time in 3 years, Israeli Elections happened. So, we can elect the 120 members of the Knesset, and prime minister. Supposedly democratically, but why is my so called newly elected prime minister has been in power for 15 years? What is the point of holding these elections, if we are going to get the same people in power? Why is there this big fear of change? Is this really the perfect democracy in the middle east that everyone brushes in your face when you give criticism? 

 

 Some ask me "why didn't you vote?". Short answer: I didn't really bother to, nor care about it. But I'm sure that is not enough or maybe the longer answer will give you clarity, truly I think everyone should vote, it's a right. But when you feel like your rights are a joke, especially when they're being treated like one by the people in power. Instead of me answering this question, I'm going to ask you the exact same question back, why did YOU vote? 

 

Why did vote? Who really represented you and cared about your wellbeing living in this country? In other countries you will see politicians trying to persuade their people by doing advertisements and campaign, that at least will try to convince you they care. They at least will make you think they care about inflation, housing, taxes, health care. On the other hand, in Israel it's a game of who can promise to "kick out the Arabs" or who can say the most discriminatory comments about other ethnic groups, fascism of all kinds and they're not trying to hide it, at all. Can you remember the last time a right-wing party who conservative didn't rule? Maybe a leftist party? 

 

 Moreover, I want to be represented and to not be treated like I'm an alien in a country that I was born in alongside my ancestors before me, but again you will say "If that is the case why didn't you vote for the Arab parties?". There is no short answer to this, but I can summarize it by saying this, it's sad that all Arab parties have to unite in order to have enough seats, for my people to be represented. What is also a sad reality is how you can forget the values of your own people based on your ego and selfish needs. Once again, Arab parties departed and separated from each other, fully knowing how hard it is to actually have a voice, that can be heard. But this could be my point of view, you may think its subjective but when you look at the sad reality of having 10 seats combined for all Arab parties (out of 120), hopelessness may arise. 

 Israeli elections, when you hear these words nowadays it really feels like a series that comes out with a new season each few months. We get to watch this show played by all these groups and even individuals. HOW LUCKY ARE WE, FIVE SEASONS IN 3 YEARS ONLY, personally I think stranger things should catch up. I'm charmed and astonished for the 5th time, that's what I'm going to answer when I get asked in poetry class "What has astonished you lately?", totally this show.