Nigel Evans and the Unfunny Side of Politics

Like many other people who know him directly or by repute, I find it difficult to believe him guilty of the allegations, and I will be amazed if his supporters are proven wrong – though it is always possible, of course. He is not the first politician to be accused of misdemeanour, and while some have been found guilty of perjury and fraud, for example, others have been fully exonerated of allegations made through misunderstanding, spite, or political ill-will. To be falsely accused of a wrongdoing is painful always; I remember well how it felt as a child in a large family to be accused of something which later proved to have been done by one of my siblings: while it was a minor incident I never forgot how it felt, and for someone in the public eye and also a law-maker, like an MP, the experience must be harrowing. While some men and women enter politics for personal gain, others are drawn into a harsh world through a genuine desire to help their country and their community, and I admire them for taking the risk of incurring the wrath of the media or the prejudices of opponents, potentially resulting in hurtful smears and, indeed, false accusation – often hard to disprove and live down, and very damaging; it would be unlikely to occur if they had an “ordinary” job. Nigel Evans is clear in his determination not to hide or leave his role as Deputy Speaker or MP while investigations continue, and his upfront, honest approach has earned him respect even from the media, so far. The truth will emerge in time, but even now there is much food for thought in this sorry tale for him, for his accusers, and for all of us. Truth and justice matter, and to misuse them can do great damage.   Claire Montanaro is a spiritual teacher, channel and blogger. Loves nature and wildlife. Author of Spiritual Wisdom.]]>