It is true that power corrupts. The hope at the polling stations and the actions of the elected representatives, unfortunately, often turn to be opposite. The power of ballot turns into the power of wallet. Some law-makers become law-breakers.

Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj’s quote, "It is true that power corrupts. The hope at the polling stations and the actions of the elected representatives, unfortunately, often turn to be opposite," addresses the corrupting influence of political power. Elbegdorj, a former President of Mongolia, reflects on the reality that when individuals gain power through the democratic process, their initial promises and the hope of the people can often be undermined by the self-interest that comes with political influence. The quote highlights the disconnect between the aspirations of voters and the actions of those they elect, illustrating how power can change even the most well-intentioned leaders.

The second part of the quote, "The power of ballot turns into the power of wallet," emphasizes the corruption that often occurs when politicians prioritize personal wealth over public service. The ballot—a symbol of democratic choice and political power—can be transformed into the wallet—a symbol of personal gain and materialism. Elbegdorj suggests that, rather than working for the public good, some politicians exploit their positions for financial benefits, thereby betraying the trust of the people.

Additionally, the quote, "Some law-makers become law-breakers," underscores the hypocrisy and moral decline that can occur once individuals gain power. Lawmakers, who are entrusted with creating and upholding laws, may themselves become violators of those very laws, driven by the desire for personal profit or control. This corruption highlights the vulnerability of democratic institutions to abuse and emphasizes the importance of holding elected officials accountable.

The origin of this quote comes from Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj, who served as the President of Mongolia from 2009 to 2017. Elbegdorj, a political leader known for advocating for democracy and transparency, was critical of the political system and the challenges of maintaining a healthy democracy. His quote reflects his concerns about the corruption and ethical decay in political systems, and the difficulties of keeping elected representatives accountable to the people they serve.