History is repeated with the example of how good men under its influence not only became corrupt when they rose to power but also played havoc with the destiny of their country. We have for example Adolf Hitler who was an epitome of a patriot but no sooner did he become fuehrer he let loose the scourge of war culminating in the second world war. The war crimes that he perpetuated against jews shall forever be a blot on the history of mankind. Even in India, we have the rajas and maharajas enjoying absolute powers over their subjects which made them corrupt and immoral.

History is witness to the fact that such people thrive more in an autocratic or oligarchy form of government where the head of the state has unbridled power. This abuse of power at times leads to general dissatisfaction making the people revolt in mutiny. This is what we saw in Philippines and Uganda where president Marcos and admin were overthrown in the uprising. Thus there is the need for a proper check and balance on all people occupying positions of power and authority. There should also be stringent laws facilitating early identification of corrupt officials and their legal indictment. This would serve as a deterrent for others not to harbour corrupt intentions.

There is no doubt whatsoever in the above statement that the greater the power the more dangerous the abuse. However having in place a proper system for ensuring accountability can effectively check this. Such people should be adequately compensated so that they do not adopt the corrupt method for their own aggrandizement and are able to exercise their powers without fear and favour. Until we do the above the words of lord Ashton will continue to haunt us for said he, “power tends to corrupt and absolute tends to corrupt absolutely”