On the Issue of the COP Internal Elections...

Now that we have three contenders in the race for Political Leader of the Congress of the People, the burden on the membership is to understand what each person brings to the table and what their elevation could possibly mean to the Party in its quest to become a national political force and a viable alternative at General Election time.

It would be disrespectful to not pause and acknowledge the contribution made by the outgoing Political Leader Mr. Winston Dookeran under whose stewardship and guidance the Party developed. Weathering many a storm in his brief time at the helm, he had the courage to enunciate a clear vision for a the Party and the fortitude and determination to stay true to it come what may. This country owes him a debt of gratitude for changing the way we view many things in the political arena, not the least of which being each other.

Words like morality and integrity found their way back into the national discussion because of his steadfastness to their defense, and his willingness to promote such values in the face of the sometimes ridiculous cut and thrust of our politics is a testimony to the character of the man. The main challenge for the new leader would be to have as much courage and strength of character in his own right and to emulate the unselfishness and personal sacrifice that was demonstrated by our founder and former leader in pursuit of larger goals.

This is written solely from my perspective and is meant to guide the Party from a national view and not just an internal one.

Anil Roberts

As the first challenger as it were, Anil brings some particular skill sets to the equation that are most appealing during an election when crowd response to Trini styled 'ole talk' and 'lackaray' adds that local flavor to political rallies. He has the ability to run with an idea regardless of opposition and may well stay the course during turbulent times. 

- His greatest strength lies in his mass appeal and ease with people.

- His greatest weakness is his political immaturity at this point, which one expects to change as time goes by and the true value of experience sets in.

- In my view Anil would make a great leader some day, but that day is not this day. The Party and the country can only gain by his continued involvement in politics and this foray into leadership may be the right guidance for his future trajectory.

Vernon De Lima

Second out of the gate, Vernon De Lima is a man of singular reputation and whose firm hand and clear view may be just the ticket the Party needs to find its voice and quell national concerns of the COP being assimilated into the UNC. It would be safe to say that under his watch no such assimilation could take place.

- His greatest strength lies with his outright demeanor and force of personality, uncommon traits in a world of mass produced politicians.

- His greatest weakness lies in his political obscurity, and while his brand is strong nationally as an attorney of some renown, his tenure in politics has been too brief to allow most to size up his measure and understand his value.

- In my view Vernon would be an excellent political leader while the Party is joined in political union with others as there would be no question as to loss of identity. It would be safe to say that with his hand on the wheel, terms and conditions agreed to would be met or discussions and negotiations would be the order of the day. The Party needs to use this man at the highest level if it ever hopes to live up to its potential.

Prakash Ramadhar

Prakash is a most loved Deputy Political Leader and to many the heir apparent to Mr. Dookeran himself. Prakash is widely known and has a recognized brand as a people's champion, currency that translates well in election circles.

- His greatest strength lies in that brand, and his name recognition and demonstrated loyalty may be the balm most need to endure the changing of the guard. His success in legal circles as a true champion of the people is legendary now despite his young age, and he may well surprise everyone with a yet undemonstrated grasp of the way politics works on the ground.

- His greatest weakness is his apparent softness which I believe to be a mistaken trait. Many a legal opponent suffered for having mistaken his kindness for weakness, but in politics and at elections more so, perception trumps ability almost every time. 

- In my view the Party could hardly do better save again for political inexperience. Prakash needs to distance himself further from his political allies outside of the COP so as to allay fears that he is just as comfortable in either camp. Men like him are a rare commodity and steps must be taken to keep him at the front of the Party for as long as possible.

The main issue with the last two challengers in this internal election is understanding the effect that both of their candidacies could have on the final outcome. If it is found that they both appeal to the same cross section of members then we could have a situation where the vote is split with neither making enough numbers to achieve victory and causing something like an upset.

This needs to be viewed with calm heads and a decision made for the good of the Party and the country at the highest level so that all of the members could support the ideal candidate for the job.