by: Rudolph A. Neal

Thursday, September 5, 2024

Undoubtedly, it is truly some troubling times we are in where our sacred democracy is concerned. There is no need to rehash or get into the rampant discord of His Majesty’s loyal Opposition’s plight, as their laundry is already out to air. However, what must be categorically stated is that the UDP, whose fiduciary responsibility is to defend and safeguard our democracy, against an albeit powerful and seemingly unassailable government, is currently in an untenable state. Now, while supporters of the ruling PUP may be rejoicing at the UDP’s self-destruction, keen observers and concerned citizens view with much concern and great dismay, the state of affairs within the UDP, and how their actions at this point are undoubtedly threatening our sacred democracy.

While many may hope against all hopes that the UDP will rectify their internal disputes and make amends, I reckon that more drastic action needs to be taken. I am of the purview that the state of affairs with the Opposition is so bad that the only way to safeguard our democracy is to call the elections now. While this may sound left field, what this move would do is in essence cause the blind men to see, and humble the warring factions in the UDP in the face of the realization that it is imperative that they come together, refocus, realign, unify and present themselves as a formidable Opposition. While I have my personal opinions on the state of affairs within the opposition party, where their internal leadership struggle and strife are concerned, it is not necessary to mention them. What is important to say is that the country is beleaguered and is becoming frustrated and irate at the ramblings within the UDP, because it is having an adverse effect on the stability of our democracy.

In the face of a ruling government that controls a super-majority in the House, there can be no room for the Opposition to be so conceitedly preoccupied with themselves and so hung up on power that they become blinded to the fiduciary responsibility of safeguarding and defending our democracy: a duty they swore to carry out. It is a shame to see the mud-slinging and internal splintering that is unfolding, but it is more disconcerting to see the effects that it is having on our country. The beleaguered state that the UDP finds itself in emboldens the PUP to govern with little to no questions about their policies and procedures, because the Opposition is busy fighting over fries that spilt on the floor while the government sits above and indulges in the steak.

Truth be told, while the masses are trying to remain hopeful for an amicable solution to the internal warfare within the UDP, hope is dwindling with each passing day. And while many propositions have been tabled for peace and accord to prevail so that the Opposition may present itself with a united front and safeguard our democracy, most attempts have appeared to be futile. Thus, one surmises that if the warring factions continue to dissent and the “purported” splintering should persist, it would be imperative that the elections are called to “force” the Opposition to realize what disunity causes, and to bring men of pride to humility, while causing the blind to see that when you close your eyes to reality, that it not only affects you and the party, but the country and impacts its sovereign democracy. Thus, if the Opposition fails to unite and defend our democracy, I reckon that the elections should be called to safeguard our democracy.

Unchained Reflections Of A Liberal Pragmatist.