As originally conceived, the practice of politics is intended to be a noble calling. Yet, without voluntary, ethical restraint, the pursuit and exercise of power risks becoming personal, brutal and self-serving; coarsening the polity, bringing public institutions into disrepute and damaging the common good.
So, consistent with the highest ideals of our profession, I promise that:
In the pursuit of power, I will:
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Act in good conscience;
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Enable informed decision-making by my fellow citizens;
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Respect the intrinsic dignity of all;
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Refrain from exploiting my rivals’ private failings for political gain; and
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Act so as to merit the trust and respect of the community.
In the exercise of power, I will:
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Give effect to the ideals of democratic government and represent the interests of my electorate as a whole;
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Abide by the letter and spirit of the Constitution and uphold the rule of law;
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Advance the public interest before any personal, sectional or partisan interest;
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Hold myself accountable for conduct for which I am responsible; and
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Exercise the privileges and discharge the duties of public office with dignity, care and honour.
Source: St James Ethics Centre, originally entitled the Politicians’ Pledge