Dear Editor,
The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) has long prided itself on its commitment to adherence to its constitution. However, a critical issue has emerged within the party – the potential extension of Aubrey Norton’s term by eight months (as mentioned by him at a press conference) beyond its constitutionally appointed end date of December 20, 2023. This missive argues that such an extension must not be allowed, as it represents a blatant breach of the party’s constitution and threatens to erode the core principles of PNCR democracy. Moreover, it calls upon the Central Executive Committee (CEC) to avoid complicity in this illegal act and emphasizes the importance of holding the biennial congress at the constitutionally mandated time.
The PNCR’s constitution serves as the bedrock upon which the party’s democratic principles are built. Within this document, the timing and frequency of the biennial delegates’ congress are clearly outlined. Any attempt, without meritorious reasons such as it is the year of Regional and General Elections or a pandemic is with us, to extend Aubrey Norton’s term beyond the constitutional limit represents a dangerous precedent, undermining the rule of law within the party. By disregarding the constitution, the PNCR would compromise its very foundation, casting doubt on the party’s commitment to democratic principles. The frivolous reason for an August congress is weak because in December schools are also closed.
A fundamental pillar of democracy is the adherence to established processes and timelines. Extending a leader’s term without following the constitutional procedures not only disregards democratic norms but also disenfranchises party members who expect the congress to be held as scheduled. This deviation from democratic principles would be a disservice to the very ideals the PNCR claims to uphold. It is incumbent upon the party to demonstrate unwavering respect for the democratic process. Violating the party’s constitution makes one believe that violating the country’s constitution would also be practised and this should be frowned upon.
In 2001, the distinguished Hugh Desmond Hoyte was democratically elected as leader and entrusted with a two-year mandate that would have culminated in 2003. However, the untimely demise of Mr. Hoyte in December 2002 necessitated the convening of an extraordinary delegates’ congress in February 2003.
Subsequently, the biennial delegates’ congresses of 2005, 2007, and 2009 transpired as essential instances in the party’s democratic timeline. Notably, in 2009, the dynamic Robert Herman Orlando Corbin assumed the mantle of leadership, and within the ambit of his designated two-year tenure, he conscientiously abstained from pursuing the role of Presidential Candidate in the 2011 Regional and General Elections. This pivotal decision catalyzed the conduct of primaries, resulting in the emergence of Mr. David Granger as the Presidential Candidate in February 2011. Considering that the electoral schedule in November 2011 encompassed the Regional and General Elections, the ensuing biennial delegates congress was appropriately convened in 2012.
In succeeding years, the party diligently convened congresses in 2014, 2016 and 2018, resolutely following the established biennial pattern. While the anticipated 2020 congress encountered postponement due to the convening of the Regional and General Elections in that same year, subsequently exacerbated by the global COVID-19 pandemic, it was ultimately convened in 2021, during which Mr. Aubrey Norton was elected Party leader. Importantly, his tenure in office is set to conclude in December 2023, precisely in accordance with the stipulations of the party constitution.
The PNCR’s democracy is built upon a system of checks and balances, with the regularity of the biennial congress serving as a crucial safeguard. Allowing an extension of Aubrey Norton’s term would weaken these safeguards, concentrating power within the leadership and diminishing accountability. Such an act would send a dangerous message that the party’s leadership can manipulate the rules to suit their interests, undermining the democratic foundation of the PNCR.
The responsibility to uphold the party’s constitution and democratic values falls squarely on the Central Executive Committee (CEC). The CEC must not be complicit in any attempt to extend Aubrey Norton’s term unconstitutionally. Instead, they should serve as guardians of democratic principles, ensuring that the party’s democratic processes are followed to the letter and respecting the constitution and the rights of party members.
Adhering to the constitutional schedule for the congress is not just a matter of procedure; it ensures a fair and transparent transition of leadership. Attempting to extend Aubrey Norton’s term could lead to internal strife, divisions, and conflicts, potentially fracturing the party.
Shurwayne Holder, Elizabeth Williams-Niles, Vinceroy Jordon, Gary Best, Christopher Jones, Jermaine Figueira, Edward Collins, Dawn Hastings-Williams, Geeta Chandan-Edmond, Hazel Pyle-Lewis, Kirk Fraser, Samuel Sandy, Amanza Walton-Desir, Ganesh Mahipaul, Coretta McDonald, Troy Garraway, Riaz Roopnaraine and Winston Felix should show real leadership and act within the best interest of the membership of the PNCR by following the constitution of that great party.
Sincerely yours,
Norman Browne
Social and Political Activist
