We should not adhere to rigidity for the sake of it

Dear Editor,

Much is being said in the news about the apparent breaches to the APNU-AFC Cummingsburg Accord. The critics are quick to point out that the Accord should be implemented as originally written, with no room for amendments along the way, and if the latter scenario were to occur, it would represent a betrayal of the original compact made with the citizens who voted for the coalition.

This is the sort of thinking we need to move away from if we are to progress as a nation. I am reminded of the quote by George Bernard Shaw who advanced the view that, “Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.”

The coalition is treading on sturdy ground by proposing to amend the Accord. I say this resolutely if the modifications lead to stable governance that is characterized by inclusiveness and cooperation (something that has been conspicuously absent from our political culture as of recent) and more so if that leads to good governance.

Voters are not as concerned about the exactness of the Accord as they are about the consequence of any alteration. If it leads to the improvement in their lives, security and economic fortunes then they would most certainly be willing to make that trade-off.

We must not articulate rigidity for the sake of it, especially if it leads to a worsening of the governance situation, but rather we need to examine the current context and adapt when necessary.

Yours faithfully,
Clinton Urling