Dear Editor,
The quest for state power invariably engenders some bizarre attributes in humanity when people diabolically manipulate a process for self glorification and in order that they can enjoy high office and dominance over gullible societies. Leaders have always been perceived to have derived immense satisfaction from the knowledge that they preside over the fortune of others, and they have utilized strategies fair and foul to achieve and sustain their status of supreme authority.
It is no different from what has ignited the internal strife that is now buffeting the foundation of what has been unquestionably the most cohesive political force in Guyana: the People’s Progressive Party. Prior to the present time, whatever ambitions were blossoming in the dreams of senior party personnel were allowed to wilt and perish rather than confronting the likelihood of competing with some senior comrades.
For years, party decisions at the executive level were arrived at through the orthodox method of show of hands. It is true that secret ballots were occasionally permitted when it was deemed the only viable, convenient and expedient option. Members were never known to have raised their voices in opposition to 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 antagonizing those with alternative choices, since no evidence exists to suggest that anyone was victimized for voting with their conscience.
Opponents therefore cannot use fear as a factor to justify an end to the show-of-hands option.
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 the secret ballot. What is implicit in the latter option is the possibility of fraud in the selection process. The secret ballot can be manipulated to achieve a predetermined outcome. A 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 testified to irregularities committed during voting exercises sponsored by the party. Participants were left dumbfounded at the grotesque outcome of the election. They knew that secret balloting had been 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 choice of the 2011 presidential candidate.
Those who clamour for a secret ballot have something to hide or are shameful/doubtful of their selection. Wisdom should pervade all ranks of the party. They should lift their hands, be proud of their choice and demonstrate to the world how democratic the PPP is. I say down with the secret ballot, and stand up and demand the implementation of the show-of-hands method. No secrecy, no fraud.
Yours faithfully,
Narindra Nauth Loknauth
