THE quest for state power invariably engenders some bizarre attributes in humanity when diabolically they manipulate processes to acquire self glorification and enjoy the titillations of high office through political dominance over gullible societies.  Leaders have always been perceived to have derived immune satisfaction from the knowledge that they, impersonating regal potentates, preside over the fortune of others, and with this knowledge, they utilize all strategies fair and foul, to achieve and sustain the status of supreme authority. It is no different from what has ignited the apparent internal strife that is now buffeting the foundation of the integrity of what has been unquestionably the most cohesive political force in Guyana: the People’s Progressive Party.  Prior to the current, whatever ambitions were blossoming in the dream of senior party personnel, were zealously allowed to wilt and perish rather than confronting the likelihood of competing with some senior comrades within the party.
For years, party decisions at the executive level were arrived at through the orthodox method of “show of hands”.  It is true that “Secret balloting” was occasionally permitted when it was deemed the only viable, convenient and expedient option.  Members were never known to have raised their voices of opposition against the conventional practice.  Indeed, many regarded the “show of hands” method as a heroic gesture of gallantry to proclaim their choice for all to see.  No one thought of the consequences of antagonising those with alternative choices, since no evidence exists to suggest that anyone was victimised for voting with their consciences.  Opponents therefore cannot use fear as a factor to justify an end to the show of hands option.
It is necessary to examine the dilemma that is creating seismic vibrations replete with perilous potential for the party.
The raging battle at the heart of the PPP is fuelled by heated debate on the method to be used to select the 2011 presidential candidate.  Some aspirants advocate the show of hands as the preferred method, while others recommend secret balloting.  What is implicit in the former option is a veiled insinuation of possible fraud in the selection process.  Secret balloting can be manipulated to achieve a predetermined outcome.  Show of hands is overtly transparent for all to witness and effectively diminishes the chances of electoral impropriety.
A number of delegates at a past conference testify to irregularities committed during voting exercises sponsored by the party.  Participants were left dumfounded at the grotesque outcome of the election.  They knew that secret balloting was violated.  Consequently, the party leadership intervened to take corrective action.  Their concerns contained a great degree of merit and the party should be bold and open- minded enough to embrace their preference for the imminent choice of the 2011 presidential candidate.
Those who clamour for secret balloting have something to hide or are shameful/doubtful of their selection.  Come on, let wisdom pervade all ranks of the party!  Lift your hands, be proud of your choice and demonstrate to the world how democratic the PPP is.  I say down with secret balloting! Stand up and demand the implementation of the show of hands method.  No secrecy, no fraud.  Hail to the PPP.