-warns against kangaroo court
PNCR Executive Aubrey Norton has denied accusations that his statements about the outcome of the controversial Georgetown District Conference vote have brought the main opposition party into disrepute, warning that such claims appeared to be intended to provide the basis for bringing “spurious charges” against him.
Robert Corbin
In a letter to Party Leader Robert Corbin, dated July 1, 2009, MP Norton expressed outrage at the possibility of his comments being construed as bringing the party into disrepute and he said he would vigorously defend his position. “I wish to put you on notice that any attempt at creating another kangaroo court will be met with a rigorous legal response since it is my considered opinion that selective discipline as practised by you does harm to the party,” he declared.
Stabroek News was told that Norton had been given notice of the likelihood of disciplinary proceedings, but both he and the party have denied such reports. Corbin had threatened Norton with a libel suit if he did not retract his statements made to this newspaper about the party’s leader’s involvement in the District Conference and give an apology.
Norton, who lost the Chairmanship of the Georgetown District to party Co-Chair Volda Lawrence at the vote, has described the electoral process as fraudulent. The party has subsequently dismissed his claims as baseless and intended to bring the party into disrepute.
Last Saturday PNCR General Secretary Oscar Clarke said disciplinary proceedings had been discussed at the party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC), where it was agreed that such a course would be pursued if it was found to be warranted. Norton, who was present at the CEC meeting, would not comment on the controversy when contacted by Stabroek News yesterday, noting that he was abiding by the CEC’s agreement not to comment on the issue publicly.
Stabroek News has seen a copy of Norton’s letter to Corbin, which was copied to Clarke in his capacity as General Secretary as well as members of the CEC. “I find it outrageous that a statement of fact that I made subsequent to the elections of the Georgetown District can be construed as bringing the party into disrepute,” he said, arguing that such a characterisation could not be representative of the true situation.
Aubrey Norton
He noted that he did not approach the press over the issue, explaining that he was asked to comment on the party leader’s contention that the elections had been free and fair. In this context, he explained that he merely responded to an issue that Corbin placed in the public domain. “Let it be made crystal clear that my actions were aimed at giving facts in response to your ridiculous claim that the elections were free and fair,” he said. “I believe that facts cannot bring the Party into disrepute. In fact, on the contrary, concealing the truth and continuing with a flawed electoral system in the Party is what brings it into disrepute,” he added, while questioning how the party could demand a free and fair electoral system nationally and resist similar transparency within the party.
Referring to a letter he received from Corbin, Norton said it represented the “worst form of authoritarian politics,” and “an attempt to instil fear” in him, which he said would not work.
Further, he said as a longstanding member of the party he was “troubled” by the fact that Corbin’s letter reflected “an attitude and frame of mind” which have in the past put the party at variance with some of its leaders and supporters. “There is need for a new approach in which the transparency we demand of others is practiced in our party,” he said, while questioning, “How else would we be transparent in government if we do not practice it in our party politics.”
Norton emphasised that the party needed to rid itself of “Gestapo-type” behaviour that he dubbed “anti-democratic,” adding that it stifles criticism and has no place in the democratic politics of the 21st century.
Norton’s reference to “another kangaroo court” likely alludes to the disciplinary proceedings that targeted supporters of Vincent Alexander for their conduct during his aborted campaign for leadership in the lead up to the party’s biennial congress in 2007. The disciplinary action culminated with the recall of MP James McAllister from Parliament, which prompted to the subsequent withdrawal of Alexander and a number of his backers.
Among Norton’s challenges to the integrity of the election were that there was no roll call and that some prospective voters were given more than one ballot paper.
Stabroek News was present when as the ballot papers were being distributed for the voting for chairman, chaos erupted as persons were heard shouting that they were not receiving any ballot papers while others said that some were receiving more than one ballot paper. This saw some of them jumping to their feet and engaging in shouting matches.
One man who wanted to make his voice heard stood at the microphone screaming that the process was being rigged and he suggested to Returning Officer Robert Williams that the delegates move by rows to the head table to vote instead of sharing out the ballot papers as that process was supporting rigging. “We cannot want to go to the PPP/C and talk about rigging elections when we are doing the same here, this must end now we must stop this and we must start doing things right now,” the man shouted into the microphone.
Norton and his supporters left the voting area and were overheard saying that the process was being rigged. And some persons produced ballot papers which did not have the standardised stamp at the back of them. Even before the elections some persons were openly heard voicing their objections to their names not being found on the list of delegates.
Last Saturday, Clarke told reporters that allegations of irregularities and fraud at the polls were baseless, while saying no formal complaints were made to allow for an investigation. He said “misinformation” had been placed in the public domain about the conduct of the polls and that there was no proof of any of the allegations that have surfaced. He assured that an investigation would be launched to verify any allegations which were made to him in writing.
Meanwhile, Corbin, who maintained that the results of the elections reflected the will of the electorate, described the behaviour of some members at the Conference as highly unsatisfactory. “It cannot be condoned by any respectable party,” he said, noting that there were internal mechanisms that could have been utilised to address issues raised by aggrieved members.
Martin Luther King said injustice is a treat to justice everywhere. Mr. Norton you saw injustice when CORBIN did all that he did to Team Alexander and felt comfortable so you continue to sleep with the enemy (CORBIN. See what happen to you today. This is an eye opener to those who remain on the Executive body of this party. A drowning man catch to any straw. PNC member across Guyana wake up and boot Roll Over Corbin out, this man has lived out his usefulness as he is now a liability to the party.
Prof, de funny ting is dat dem two boys hail from Wismar, Linden, an it gat fuh mek Lindeners now wunda is wuh kinda new low de PNC now sink to dat even two Lindeners in de party can’t see eye to eye no mo!
Ah gat a feelin dat dis is it fuh Crabin, cause since Hoytie died de party’s free fall has accelerated with undiminished intesnity and velocity. Crabin only hangin’ in deh fuh the Opposition Leader salary and benefits, cause duh law degree he studied fuh ent gun get he a job no way in Guyana’s private sector. And Naughton gat fuh tek he licks cause he used to be chummy wid Alexander den abandon Alexander when Crabin get in he rick-a-tix and started purging dem who tryin’ fuh unseat he.
Ah can’t wait fuh de big shown down dis August at Sophia between Robber Crabin and Wild West Charlie! Its is gonna be all about de last man standin!
“It is not worth an intelligent man’s time to be in the majority. By definition, there are already enough people to do that” – G.H. Hardy
At times a particular decision by a leader (decision-maker) may not reflect the sentiments of the majority which may ultimately be in the best interest of that nation. Case in point – the American presence in Iraq (so as not to allow the enemy to follow American Fighting Forces home); and, as to why persons outside of the People’s National Congress feels that they have a right to make decisions for that party then any man can walk off the street and enter another man’s house and tell him how to run it.
So, how about letting the People’s National Congress run it house and run your own party the way you wish it to run and mind your own business sometimes.
Those guys need to chill out and work with Corbin for now until such time. They do not have what it takes to lead the party. Incase they aint know that Murray guy is better suited for the position.
denial denial denial is best what de pee n c does best…..
and the winner is “”"”pee n c”"”"
evil, ah dah you?
Denial is only one of their tool. Rigging and creating confusion is what they are best at.
it’s peehencee, lol
Re: “Denial is only one of their tool. Rigging and creating confusion is what they are best at…”
Two words – “Mission Accomplished”!
What “Mission”? Mission of confusing themselves…hehee
BTW, add one more word to those of “creating confusion”; and, that word is – “Stupefaction”!
Cool! The way to go PNC!
Fact or fiction ….the duel rages on.
This is a tempest in a teapot and should be scuttled now.
Not to worry Norton. That is a ploy to distract citizens about PNC’s misconduct AKA rigging. We know that your claim is true because historically that was how the PNC were able to win elections. On the other hand, PPP need not get happy because they have studied the rigging strategies.
Three simple words for you “NeNe {Guilty as Charged}”; and, these are “Mission Accomplished” – Again!
Think “1964″ before you run your mouth off!
Kaieteur, hat are you talking about. You read the caption “Guilty as Charged” are took off running without reading!!! You are saying the same thing. I guess because chopped my comments the gist of what I said got lost in translation. Never mind read again!!!!
Re: “Think “1964″ before you run your mouth off!”
And, if the Reports of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and the British Military Intelligence (MI6) said that the People’s National Congress (PNC) and the United Force (UF) won in 1964 then that’s just it. Now, add the Duglarization Process to the political mix and understand the judgment of the people from IOWA at the last general Elections in the United States of America.
It is very nice outside these days; so, how about spending some more of your time enjoying the weather outside rather than using your fingers on the computer keyboard to write comments that make no sense to some in the intelligent world in which we live today.
Guyana needs an President Barack Obama and it is as plain and simple as that.
Have a nice day.
Kaieteur Gold (Senior Analyst) you uwere very rabid with the above fellow. He was articulating what he as well as many of the above posting were saying ” the PNC is renoun for rigging the elections. Funny how you cited your source in authenticating the 1964 election, the CIA, US, and British as the sources that said the elections was transparent and free and fair. Giving you the benefit of the doubt, you failed to account for the PNC rigging the elections of 1968,1973,1978,1979 and 1980. My source of this information is coming from Professor Stephen Spencer’s “A Dream Deferred” which clearly states that your three sources, the CIA,US and British helped to cement and planted the seed of racial division in Guyana. Now while I agree with you that we are experiencing beautiful weather and you recommending the blogger spending constructive time to attempt to be smart, I would admonish you to spend some time and do some reading about Guyana’s history. What all of this PNC debacle indicates is what most intellectuals know already, the PNC is very astute with rigging elections and has no shame doing so. This is the party that wants to lead Guyana, a party that is stuck in its past glories.
these guys in a boat without a sail, eh eh eh eh eh
Norton did not have a district conference in four years why?
Norton as a former General Secretary know the party rules and constitution (two wrong cannot make it right). Norton know that District Conferences held every year.
Not only the PNC have different of opinion. This also happened with the PPP and the AFC but the other two parties kept their internal affairs under a lid while the PNC matter has taken centre page to the media.
Even the blind can see what is going on here. This does not take a scientist to figure this out (Every one wants to be Leader) Too many captain in the PNCR; Some are trying to destroy one man while they are destroying the whole dam PNCR.
Re: “Not only the PNC have different of opinion. This also happened with the PPP and the AFC but the other two parties kept their internal affairs under a lid while the PNC matter has taken centre page to the media.
Even the blind can see what is going on here. This does not take a scientist to figure this out (Every one wants to be Leader) Too many captain in the PNCR; Some are trying to destroy one man while they are destroying the whole dam PNCR…”
This openness could be a blessing in disguise for the People’s National Congress “Leadership”; and, the very good thing about it all is that Stabroek News is committed to publish the truth; and, nothing but the truth when it comes to information on the World Wide Web (WWW)… So, let this go where ever it takes us.
Remember that “Now, “All Your (The People’s National Congress – PNC Intelligentsia Membership) Base Are Belong To US”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ksFqjI3gyAo
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9oh3gqOEKU
So, how goes the purging….
Peace!
“Some are trying to destroy one man while they are destroying the whole dam PNCR.” So in the interest of the PARTY, why don’t the one man consider that he should step aside?
Leadership, am I reading you correct, that because Norton did not have a district conference when it was due is reason for what happened a few Sundays ago? Last time I checked, Corbin and not Norton is leader of the PNCR.
With all that has happened over the years, every member has a RIGHT to go public with the unethical practices of this Party. At the moment I really don’t care what other Parties are doing. If this practice started with the PNC, IT MUST END WITH THE PNC!
Furthermore, if everyone wants to be leader then so be it! The PNC was never about one man and IT MUST NEVER BE! It is time now to stop making excuses while defending the indefensible, IT IS WHAT IT IS!
Region 3 also has not hosted a conference in about 3 years. But my guess is, one will not come off before congress. Afterall, Corbin has to achieve his objective by returning as Leader and chaging the current ’sunked ship’ executive in that region will not work for him.
It is funny though, that while at last congress, when it was assumed that Norton was on Corbin’s side, there was no call for a district conference (not with the Alexander faction’s obvious influence on the district anyway) Now that Norton is perceived as an opponent, Corbin has been very instrumental in getting rid of him. Oh, the theatrics of politics.
All hail the king! The king is dead!
Me nah know a wha dem a fight fa. Instead them come together. Right now is that Murray boy who got what it takes to lead the party. Norton u shud support corbin until such time and stop crying like a lil baby.
Mr.Norton you are only exposing what has been hibernating within PNC and Corby it is time to pass on the torch to someone with real VISION.
Norton, stand by your statements, you have nothingto lose. It is quite notorious of Corbin and the PNC to state publicly that you are attemping to bring the party into disrepute. I am afraid that if such actions are allowed to continue, the PNC will be forced to register as an NGO. Any clear thinking and unbiased individual who was present at the last district conference would agree that the electoral process was completely fraudulent. It is quite surprising that no one has mentioned, the casting of ballots even after the polls were declared closed for the office of Chairman. Where were Corbin and your General Secretary when supporters of the other candidate were throwing ballot papers into the boxes as they were being carried away for counting? Those right thinking individuals who are still in the party need to create a system to send off Corbin and his chronies. Why would the upholders of this ‘democratic process’ reject the proposition by one party member, to have persons vote by row, during the election of the Chairman and Vice Chairman, but resort to this same procedure after those two offices were filled? And why, Norton tell us why, candidate/membership numbers were duplicated. The membership has to call for the rejection of those results and the resignation of Corbin, Oscar, Amna, Corlette, and countless others who continue, by their actions put us all to shame.
Rally around Norton! Corbin must go!
Re: “Rally around Norton! Corbin must go!”
Who are you; and, why should “Corbin” go – because you say so. Do ya know how the PNC Political Party in Guyana was established and for what purposes???
Go start your own political party and get a life.
Please Corbin STAY, Please STAY.
All supporters lets fight for him, do dwhat we do best picket and rig more.
When we finish, the public will see what we stand for and either dont vote atall or we will be the party with 1 seat in parliment which will belong to Corbin
Kaieteur Gold, tell me you are not serious. Fola is in ORDER!
This man Norton seems to be a problem in this party, I can remember Desmond Hoyte once removed him form the Party for some unknown reasons and nobody condemn Hoyte then,,. I am wondering if he is trying the same thing with Corbin…
Kaeiteur Gold, unfortunately, it is folks like you who insist on PNC old ideologies, who drive young intellectuals from the party. Hoyte had a different vision for the party: one that embraced youth and development. If the party was to survive with fossils only then the current state it is in would not have been. Corbin is a fossil, Oscar is a fossil, and so are you. Corbin must go because the PNC is publicly divided and bereft of logic under his reign. You seem to be such an ardent supporter of Corbin and his gerrymandering tactics. Why don’t you come back to Guyana and live under this system? Why did you stay and educate young people on the history of the party and Burnham’s struggles? No! You ran, like countless others did after Burnham died. You are a coward! Stand up and face the truth for once in your life. Corbin has to go! And not because I say so, but because, if you walk the streets of Guyana, throughout our constitutencies, you willhear the same thing echoing throughout the land. Corbin must go! Corbin must go! And please Kaieteur Gold, when he goes, you follow.
Soldier, try again. Who told you Hoyte was not condemn. Of course he was. But he did not respond the way Corbin does. Hoyte was a statesman and an excellent role model for young people. Corbin is simply a TWOFT.
Kaiteure seems to be angry because PNC has created their own quagmire and he can’t get them out, so he is firing at everyone who does not have an ounce of sympathy for the party. You better rest yourself becauce the writing is already on the wall.
why corbin must go? keep the in fighting going or norton must go.
“Fola Smith”, you have said inter alia: “Hoyte had a different vision for the party: one that embraced youth and development. If the party was to survive with fossils only then the current state it is in would not have been….”
Please answer this question honestly. Did you listen to the presentation by “Desmond Hoyte” that was made at the Third Biennial Congress of the People’s National Congress that was held in 1979; or, did you read same. And, if you did and you are educated enough then you would have realized that the “Desmond Hoyte” you are talking about might not have had the slightest clue about some of the things that he was reading about.
FYI, I am an British educated and trained Materials Technician/Technologist; and, that is how I know (and, authoritatively so too) that the “Desmond Hoyte” you are talking about would have been clueless about some of the contents of his presentation.
Nice try though.
Re: “And please Kaieteur Gold, when he goes, you follow….”
Oh no dear heart, some lead the way, some follow while others drop out all together. So, try to expand your vision/horizon some more and you will understand that after Region Ten comes Region Eleven; and, the world is the playing field for some like yours truly. You appear to have some extra time at hand… How about working for my company for U.S. dollars with the possibility of international travel involved.
Like I was saying all along, PNC is playing football with a bucket. They see that national power is out of reach so there is this inturnal grabbing for it. They can’t manage themselves, they have mismanaged this country for 28 years and people still support them? It is simply amazing how Guyanese can be led by their nose rings to the slaughter house.
Re: “Like I was saying all along, PNC is playing football with a bucket. They see that national power is out of reach…”
What in the world are you talking about???
Technology Rules The world”; so, stop being a political dunce in the eyes of the public.
John,,, The members of the PNCR realizes that the only benifit left in the party is being the leader, I think the constitution provides a lot of benifits for the leader, other than that it is a big disgrace in the PNCR camp…
Somebody, anybody, please loan this senior analyst a half brain. He needs to atleast attempt living up to his self proclaimed title. The man/woman thinks like a fish
Kaieture, if you don’t know what I am talking about just ask instead of being exactly what you are accusing me of. The party is dying, hence kicking the bucket. Too bad you failed to realise that.
Hey “fola smith”! Some “fishes” are very, very smart; and, that’s one reason why de Government of Guyana can’t seem fe catch dem as big as they might be. How about you as de Guyana “BRAINIAC” demonstrate to de world and to the Fourth Fleet of the United States of America how fe catch those smart “fishes” ah talking about!
Do ya think dat you can get dem GAC planes flying again with some ah dem “big fishes” on board wid all de “brains” dat ya have.
Re: “Kaieture, if you don’t know what I am talking about just ask instead of being exactly what you are accusing me of. The party is dying, hence kicking the bucket. Too bad you failed to realise that…”
Guess you are de self appointed “medical practitioner” and authority. So, how low is de “PNC party’s” pulse – eh “Papa Doctor”!!!