A government of “National Unity”? No PPP?
Hello. Even as I attempt these semi-moralistic, advisory pieces, I bear in mind today’s changed values, norms and mores, from my young adult-hood. And yes, elections of the past.
Heroes, role-models and representatives are rather different form my younger days. This generation seems to go for flair, shadow rather than substance, the smart-alec, the glib-talker, the proven smart-man with street-savvy, many vehicles and endless dollars. Okay, if “education”, honest achievement and “qualifications” are thrown in, that’s cool but not really necessary.
Never-the-less, even against that negative background, I am going to dare to suggest some criteria for you voters to bear in mind when, or before, you vote.
The “Party”, what Party
What comes first? The Party? Or the Candidate? The organization had to be established, then to attract members, supporters and later candidates. You, dear elector, if you’re no die-hard Party member right now, should examine the institution deeming itself a Political Party. What is its history? Its structure, membership and philosophy? Take the WPA, The TUF or Keith Scott’s group – do they have more than 30 members? Any constituency that you would want to be a part of?
In or out of government, was/is this Party policy-oriented or consistent? Do your utmost to be principled and honest with yourself when assessing these local political groupings with ambitions and agendas. Are not many mere masqueraders and pretenders? Perhaps your membership and support can motivate them to higher levels. Ponder – before you pander.
Real Candidates?
True representatives?
Now for your candidates. Chosen by the Party but which level? The member (ship) or the leaders (ship)? Did you really prefer him or her? Okay, but you’re prepared to rally round the candidate for victory’s sake.
But who are these dudes swearing they really want to represent your interest, welfare and future?
Could you believe them? What‘s their behaviour and attitudes right now? It’s their business to promise you the best whilst putting down their opponents. But pay keen attention to how they are going about their business on the hustings. Hear how one candidate now abuses his former comrades! What does that tell you about the new convert and his former colleagues? (Raphael Trotman stands out as one who left his Party but did not descend into mud-slinging. Compare him to others.)
By his/her demeanour now, could you see through who will be superior, aloof, arrogant or incommunicado, after assuming some authority? Consider whether the significant perks of parliament will make your candidate forget his or her mission to serve you. All the best by November 28!
On “National Unity” governments…
APNU’S Granger in Buxton: APNU is advocating a government of National Unity… we have not shut the door on the AFC…”
A.A. Fenty’’s Query: Could any real government of “National Unity” exclude the PPP, after November 28? Will the PPP/C be so badly defeated that its Party would represent less Guyanese than the WPA? Who would the victorious APNU consider to be real representatives of the PPP then? Discuss class.
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Pre-elections ponderings…
*1) Just imagine on Polling Day you have absolutely no I.D CARD. I suggest you ask Gecom’s Mr Boodoo about the Oath of Identity! The Presiding Officer at your Polling Place should still have all your particulars. But hey! Can this procedure be open to illegalities? Be careful all!
*2) Just imagine if Moses Nagamootoo was the PPP/C Presidential Candidate what aggressive things would he now be saying of the opposition?
*3) Consider carefully: What do these election crossover/defectors take to their new parties – Van West Charles, Nagamootoo, Bynoe, Burton, Bissessar, Gaumattie Singh, Hamilton, Jagan, Roopnaraine? Votes, status, prestige or credibility?
*4) Are you really impressed, persuaded when you see the Indo/Afro top two’s?
*5) For structured, studied ‘busing of the Jagdeo 12-year Presidency, read Arif Bulkan’s feature in this past Monday’s Stabroek – pg8.
*6) Is it not accurate? That private Cane Farmers should have accessed millions from the European Union money?
*7) So what is the “Church’s Mission” during elections?
‘Til next week!
(Comments? allanafenty@yahoo.com)
