A good leader is not expected to be perfect, but he or she should be seen to carry the banner that demonstrates to the people in a diverse society that no stone will be left unturned in the quest to uphold dignity, truth and integrity, and to serve in a manner that provides confidence that even in the face of difficult problems those principles will remain a priority.

As we witness the political boiling pot in America to elect the next president, accusations and counteraccusations are running amok over who has the best credentials to lead the nation.

Millions of voters are wrestling with the single issue of which candidate comes closest to fitting the bill to handle extraordinary matters both at home and on the troubled, international front.

In the end, the voters will have to live with whomever is their choice for the top job, and that will always remain a talking point, no matter what unfolds with any new administration.

Perhaps that is one of the key reasons so many people are sceptical of politics as a means of really improving the lives of all.

This is also why much is expected from any leader, no matter what may arise during a term in office.

Bermuda is going through a period of both troubling events, along with positive signs that if progress continues with our delicate economy, regardless of how slow it may appear, the island may be capable of regaining its footing to a point where the impact would touch everyone through more jobs and opportunities.

Most know the harsh reality is that for this to occur, there has to be better communication between both political parties on issues that need reasoning and common sense before a particular problem is bounced around with the potential for keeping political divisiveness alive.

This means any leader, whether it is the Premier or the Leader of Opposition, must be fully attuned to the often shifting moods of the public, especially when there is the slightest perception, right or wrong, that absolute transparency on matters of public concern may not be as forthcoming as should be the case.

This is not to suggest that our leaders are falling short in this area, but voters are real judges of performance, and they usually hold their cards close to their chests, given that as a small community, too often an expression of disapproval could cause emotional reactions that lead to arguments and unpleasant exchanges. While that should be healthy, it can also generate a negativity that is not easily erased.

This is when good, strong leadership can be a driving force to encourage open and frank discussion on any issue, no matter the degree of sensitivity. A strong leader must use skills to deal with any situation while being mindful that key principles such as dignity, respect and integrity cannot be pushed aside under any circumstances.

After all, any leader, especially in the world of politics, can also come under the same scrutiny meted out to others in any process of inquiring into a matter of concern.

It is always appropriate to reflect on various leaders, who, throughout history, found themselves having to decide whether key principles in life meant more than simply holding on to a title to please those clinging to questionable ideals.

I am reminded of the distinguished German field marshal Erwin Rommel, who was one of the most celebrated military leaders of the Second World War.

Those familiar with the history remember how he stood firm against Adolf Hitler after discovering he was on the wrong side of history in the struggle for true justice, even though he also knew that position would cost his life. His stand for doing the right thing is still being honoured to this day.

Martin Luther King Jr, in becoming a beacon to eradicate racism in America, also knew his stand against social injustice would not be without risk. He, too, fell victim to hatred, but his work helped to break down many doors of segregation throughout the nation. That work is continuing to this day.

The point is that really good leaders are not obsessed with status or a particular image when they serve for the good of all people. The leader that clings to good principles will always be a hero to people who truly believe that doing what is right is a golden rule not only for leaders, but for all who make a contribution to building a better Bermuda.