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Moral Principles and Norms of Legislators… M. M. Chegini & F. Pourkeyvan (83
need for MPs to be self-disciplined and Fulfilling Election Promises by MPs
manage their schedules effectively. Fulfilling election promises is a critical
Historical figures like Imam Ali have aspect of a parliamentarian's duty, as
stressed the importance of not relying these commitments are often the basis
on ineffective or indifferent staff, on which they are elected (Preston &
which underscores the necessity for Sampford, 2012, p. 63). During election
representatives and their teams to campaigns, voters assess candidates
embody diligence and dedication. based on their historical performance
While some individual traits like and the promises they make. While a
diligence and perseverance develop candidate's past actions are tangible and
through personal growth, institutional can be evaluated, their future promises
reforms can systematically strengthen are less certain and can be exploited by
parliamentary accountability. some who make unrealistic
Comparative research demonstrates commitments to gain authority.
that conflict-of-interest regulations— Once elected, MPs face the
such as prohibitions on MPs holding challenge of addressing the promises
concurrent employment—help ensure they made. Some of these promises
dedicated focus on legislative duties may exceed the actual powers of a
(OECD, 2021, p. 47). For example: parliamentarian and should not have
1. France’s Décret sur le cumul des been made initially. However, others
mandats (2017) bars fall within their responsibilities and can
parliamentarians from occupying be fulfilled if there is sufficient will
multiple public offices, reducing and effort. The core ethical question is
divided loyalties (François, 2020). whether MPs are morally obligated to
2. U.S. Senate Rule XII mandates fulfill these promises. This question
attendance, with unexcused becomes complicated due to the nature
absences triggering salary of some promises and the practical
deductions (U.S. Senate Ethics limitations of parliamentary power.
Manual, 2023, §5.2). In Islamic teachings, fulfilling
Such measures institutionalize promises is heavily emphasized as a
accountability where personal ethics may sign of virtue and good character. The
vary, aligning with Mansbridge’s (2003) Holy Quran praises those who keep
theory of "gyroscopic representation"— their promises, and traditions indicate
where rules compensate for individual severe repercussions for those who
shortcomings (p. 515). fail to do so (Sharīf al-Raḍī, Sayings
No. 36). However, some promises
made during elections may be
