General and Regional Elections are scheduled for this year. I therefore take this opportunity as a seasoned politician and voter to share with members of the public especially, but also with all readers and the media, a few perspectives with respect to those imminent elections. First, a background to the elections might assist the stranger, the visitor or the forgetful reader and voter. After the polling on Election Day in October 5, 1992 and December 1997, one segment of the anxious expectant public became upset when the results of one District-District Four -were delayed. Thereafter, there were other allegations and soon this discontent led to street demonstrations, public protests and other destructive; riot- like activities co-ordinated by the main opposition party, especially in Georgetown, the capital.
Newly appointed President Janet Jagan, in the face of mounting disorder in the city, agreed to intervention from CARICOM. Two agreements were brokered: the Herdmanston Accord and the St Lucia Agreement. Many conditions, meant to promote peace and reforms, were laid down with various deadlines. Despite the unfortunate, less-than -successful dialogue, the delayed constitutional and electoral reforms, the nation now stands poised to experience another national election after President Bharrat Jagdeo’s second-term victory since 2001 -as specified by the Herdmanston Accord.
One phenomenon in the run –up to this new poll is the record number of newly formed parties signalling their intentions to contest either individually or in alliance. Nomination Day will prove just which among them commands the electorate’s respect or support. In any case, it could be a heartening sign when so many actually feel they have the right, the opportunities and the freedom to compete, to service or to lead. The usual sometimes unwelcome rhetoric is now being heard as the campaigns will be launched and the hustings begun. Charges and counter charges, varied types of appeals to the electorate are now normal.
All this is mixed with the voter education necessary to teach the voters about the system of voting. The Elections Commission has already selected the Returning and Deputy Returning Officers after its registration challenges. I will end this letter with two points of view: firstly, those groupings that describe themselves as parties must prove themselves capable of organising and influencing those they claim to be supporters towards positive behaviour and contributions, including teaching the new electorate systems and the observance of their peaceful civic duties; secondly, voters must decide where their vote will go based on the parties’political behaviour, their records of decency and better plans for the country and its people.
Yours faithfully,
Mohamed Khan