In a democracy, no Government is beyond reproach on any issue affecting the people, no matter how sensitive it may be.As 2011 unfolds, we can expect many verbal confrontations on a wide range of issues in our Parliament, and indeed the Senate, and this in itself is healthy. What is not so healthy is when these clashes occur for political gain, rather than what's good for the country.Trying to promote a political image for future votes is a key component with most political groups in a democratic system. Nothing wrong with that, unless the people come to believe that the authorities of the day are more concerned about political survival, than what is best for the people.In a small jurisdiction such as Bermuda reading between political lines is a daily practice and most politicians know this. However, people in positions of power must be careful how they read those who are reading between the political lines, especially when it comes to sensitive matters.Criticism of a Government decision does not mean the Government has it all wrong. However it is troubling when this occurs, and Government attempt to explain a controversial decision, leave more questions than answers. Even more troubling is when the criticism itself, is viewed as an anti-Government reaction.Let's face it, if a Government decision is made that touches a nerve in a large segment of the community, the floodlight of reason and truth should be brought into play to avoid any perceptions that a particular decision was taken without full consideration on whether it was fair and right.Most law-abiding people in this country want the Government of the day to succeed, not because they are proponents of that party, but because if the Government of the day is successful, then the country is too. This is not necessarily an absolute, and it relates to success in terms of tangible achievements for the good of the people and not necessarily the number of votes in the ballot box.The public wants it known that the people of this country come first, and in that regard, action speaks louder than words. The populace should never feel shunned in any way over a decision or policy that leaves the impression that they were not a priority.The Bermuda public was not the priority in the case of the selection of an overseas artist for a commission over highly qualified talent here. Although the cost factor was cited as the main reason, many are convinced that this was not handled in the best interest of the people. This is not to say the cost factor was irrelevant, but how it all unfolded has left many wondering whether everything possible was done to have highly skilled local talent involved.Again Government must be open to criticism, even to the point of eating a little crow if they have to, in order to build and maintain trust and transparency.Of course, just because a Government decision is unpopular does not mean it is wrong. But what is important is that Government must never question the right of the average citizen to question something that appears to fall short of what should be transparency at its bestIf democracy is really working, the people have every right to question any Government decision without fear of being branded as troublemakers. Nor should the public, when objecting to a policy, criticisms be directed at an individual. This shifts the focus from the issue, and often ignites unpleasant exchanges that do nothing to build a spirit of cooperation.Indeed, it should be clear have nothing against those four former Guantanamo detainees. The fact that they were brought here in the dark of night as most Bermudians slept, has left many with a feeling of having been deceived by the authorities of the day.While some may disagree with that perception, it shows no sign of fading. Thankfully Bermudians are warm people, and displayed hospitality to these men, even though many still question the motive behind the manner it was executed.In this new year, we must move forward and our leaders should embrace the qualities we hear so much about, in the run up to an election. They include honesty, truth, respect and transparency. In other words we should refrain from crying over spilled milk, or grumbling about the past.There are too many serious matters facing this country, and little room for political game playing. Criticism must not only be welcomed by authorities of the day, but should be encouraged on a daily basis to avoid negative perceptions over sensitive issues.Bermuda can and must move in that direction in order to grow. It is our only hope.