The information below is based from my humble observation (they may not be acceptable by all politicians).

Politics and politicians of today differ from those about a half-century ago. During that time, the politicians had an upper hand on as far as information and news were concerned. It is because he was normally from the capital city and travelled inland to the suburbs or the rural areas.

So whatever he has said in his speeches and during his conversations with the local leaders would be treated as the gospel truth. This is due to the limitations on information technology we had then.

The politicians had a gala time manipulating and hiding news and information to their advantage. No doubt the truth would eventually be exposed. However, the damage would have been done by then.

However, today, politicians must beware if they want to lie or manipulate the truth. Not only that, even if they want to tell the truth, they need to be very alert and be well-informed. This is because no matter how remote a person’s location is, he gets up-to-date facts and information and in a speedy manner.

Yes, I am talking about Internet and other information multimedia. So a politician today must be well-informed and at the same time must tell the truth. However, if the truth is to hi disadvantage, then he may try to manipulate the truth to his advantage without being noticed.

Apart from the above, a successful politician today needs to have the following qualities (this applies to those politicians whose positions are always under threat).

1. When there is an issue hotly discussed and the politician is the one to take action, then this politician should neither say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to the press or to the affected parties. This will keep them guessing until the time you announce your decision.

This will help you not only gain time but keep your opponents guessing on your next move.

2. No one is a friend and no one is a foe permanently in politics. So you should be prepared to hug a foe and make him your buddy and at the same time get rid of your friend if it gives you political mileage. A limited conscience is useful in this case.

3. Always have a contingency plan for each political decision you make. This will help avoid a serious downfall in your political career.

4. You should not show or express negative feelings when you are a politician. However, politicians can show their positive feelings in abundance.

5. Keep your private life extremely far away from the eyes of your political friends and foes alike. The negative side of it (if any) might be used against you.

6. The politician needs to be (seen) as friendly and approachable. You must look pleasant and smile to whomever you meet. When you shake hands, make sure your eyes are looking at the person concerned and not elsewhere (I have noticed the opposite very common today).

Well, that is all I could think of the qualities needed by a politician today. The above are not exhaustive and readers may add others of their own.