CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Former U.S. President Donald Trump is no stranger to controversial statements, but his recent remarks on bribery have sparked a fresh debate on governance, ethics, and democracy. By implying that bribery is just a “business transaction” and everyone uses it, Trump has not only downplayed corruption but has also raised serious concerns about the state of global politics.
#### Did Trump Just Legitimize Bribery?
Trump’s statement suggests that corruption is not just an unfortunate reality but an accepted part of politics and business. This raises an alarming question: Has bribery become a legitimate tool of power? When a former president publicly acknowledges bribery as a strategic advantage, it undermines the principles of democracy, transparency, and fair governance.
#### Bribery as a ‘Trump Card’ in Politics
Bribery is no longer just about illegal cash transactions—it has evolved into a sophisticated power tool used for political and corporate gains:
– Influencing governments through political donations and opaque funding mechanisms.
– Manipulating business deals by ensuring contracts go to those who pay the highest bribe.
– Controlling the judiciary and media to maintain power and suppress dissent.
Trump’s remarks expose the reality that bribery is no longer a hidden crime—it has become an open strategy for those in power.
#### The Moral Crisis: Power vs. Ethics
The real danger of bribery is not just its illegality, but the growing acceptance of corruption as a norm.
– If bribery is normalized, where does justice stand?
– If policymaking is for sale, how can public trust be maintained?
– Does democracy become a game of the wealthy, leaving the common citizen powerless?
#### Is the ‘Moralization’ of Bribery Possible?
Trump’s statement indirectly promotes the idea that bribery is just another strategic business move. But if corruption is framed as acceptable, how can governance remain accountable?
– Legalizing bribery would destroy fair competition in politics and business.
– It would allow only the rich and powerful to influence decision-making.
– It would turn democracy into an oligarchy, where power belongs to those who can afford it.
#### Trump’s Statement and Its Relevance to India
Bribery and corruption are major concerns in India as well. Several instances have shown how corporate giants influence governments through financial incentives.
– Are political donations a form of legalized bribery?
– Are corporate lobbying efforts shaping government policies?
– Has democracy in India, too, become a game of wealth and influence?
#### Conclusion: Stopping Bribery from Becoming a ‘Trump Card’
Trump’s statement may have been made in the U.S., but its implications affect democracies worldwide. If corruption is accepted as a “normal business transaction,” governance systems could crumble.
– Stronger judicial and administrative frameworks are needed to fight corruption.
– Transparency in election funding must be enforced.
– Citizens must take an active stand against bribery and demand accountability.
If bribery is rebranded as just another business strategy, democracy may soon be reduced to a game controlled by money and power. The real question is: Do we want a democracy “for the people, by the people,” or a system where power is only for those who can afford to buy it?
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