The latest upheaval within the leadership of the opposition United National Congress (UNC), as disorienting as it may be for the party's membership, could well turn out to be a blessing for the party and nation.

The crisis, some have feared, could spell the demise of the UNC. It certainly detracts from its effectiveness in Parliament but the present problems may be a vehicle for growth in the nation's social and political maturity.

Mr Basdeo Panday's incarceration and the announcement of his resignation as chairman of the UNC following his release have placed the whole matter of the party's leadership firmly in the public arena. There is every indication that unity is desired now more than ever and, in its own way, the leadership crisis has become a mobilising force among UNC members. From the Christian perspective, this yearning is an important and encouraging sign.

The Church, called to be a sign of unity, knows that unity is not of human origin. The foundation and source of this condition in the institution is Christ himself. He prayed: “ May they all be one, just as, Father, you are in me and I am in you, so that they also may be in us ” (John 17:21 ).

But the Church's experience also makes it clear that true unity does not happen quickly. It requires patience and sacrifice. It is not the same as uniformity, and therefore can only be built up on trust and with sound leadership.

The good leader's concern is for those whom he or she leads. “ I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd is one who lays down his life for his sheep, ” (John 10:11 ) says Jesus in the Gospel for this Good Shepherd Sunday.

Mark of the Good Shepherd

In Jesus' parable, the mark of the good shepherd is in his commitment to the sheep. In contrast, the hired help who—for his own purposes—takes on the role of the shepherd “ abandons the sheep and runs away ” at the first sign of the wolf. The hireling's self-interest amounts to an abuse of power.

The grab for power and its abuse are unfortunate features of society which each generation must seek to counter if the society is to become more just.

The media today place under close scrutiny those who offer themselves for political office. More importantly they offer the public an opportunity to see and to hear would-be leaders. They can facilitate the democratic process and promote justice.

As the UNC goes through a time of purification, it would be unwise for structures within the party to make light of the voices of the people. The “sheep”—those who listen—are not ignorant.

Responsible leadership requires good listening. Good leaders, after the model of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, will recognise the many voices in and around them and will be discerning. They will need reliable and trustful support. They will see their political authority as God's gift and a unique opportunity to respond to his call.

“Building a just social and civil order, wherein each person receives what is his or her due,” says Pope Benedict XVI, “is an essential task which each generation must take up anew.” ( Deus Caritas Est , “God is Love” art. 28). It is a responsibility which those who seek to hold the reins of political power must embrace.