The PNCR, GAP, WPA and the NFA, in July announced that they would work on building an alliance with civil society groups such as trade unions, religious, cultural, business and professional organisations and a technical team was formed to address the creation of a Statement of Principles (SOP) to guide the JOPP alliance.
Speaking to reporters on Friday at his party’s weekly news briefing, PNCR Chief Whip and representative on the taskforce, Lance Carberry said they hoped to have the SOP finalised shortly so the parties could sign on and accept that and a Code of Conduct.
“In addition … they will also sign on and accept a Code of Conduct which will guide the behaviour of all the members of the alliance. That process is in train and hopefully there will be a conclusion of that process soon, I think all of us will like to see it happen soon.”
However, Carberry said it is a process which will take time given the difference of ideas and experiences brought to the table and the need to find a common ground and consensus. Asked whether a lengthy process could lead to a loss of public confidence for the alliance he said he believed the public understands they are deliberating something that would have long-term benefits.
“We’re talking about the future development of this country and we’re talking about the future leadership of this country. It is not something to be done in a haphazard way, it is something to be done very carefully and to be well considered,” Carberry stated.
The PNCR parliamentarian said they have “moved very far” on the deliberations and that they would hopefully have a document to work with “in a very short while.”
“I believe all of the parties consider that it is very important that we come to a conclusion very quickly, there’s a commitment for that and therefore as long as people can find agreement there will be rapid progress, that I can tell you.”
The announcement of the coalition had followed a decision by the AFC ruling out any possibility of an alliance with the main opposition PNCR. However, the party had set up a four-member team to engage like-minded individuals, personalities and entities towards forging alliances. It had also acknowledged a minority view among its executive that the door should not be closed on the possibility of forming alliances with the PPP/C and/or the PNCR.
