With three weeks to go until the much-requested United National Congress internal elections, some party members say the election process has been fair thus far.
Speaking at a UNC press conference at the party’s headquarters on Mulchan Seechan Road, Chaguanas yesterday, Chaguanas East MP Vandana Mohit said she has confidence in the party’s Elections Management Committee (EMC). The EMC includes UNC chairman Darrel P Allahar, Marilyn Martin and Dr Allen Sammy. The trio have been tasked with overseeing the preparations for the elections in accordance with the party’s rules and terms of reference.
Mohit said, “I believe our party has always followed the democratic process laid out for both us elected representatives and our members and I support that. We have an elections management committee who we have full confidence in. I see they are doing a great job and they have been very fair thus far and we look forward to the process.”
Last Week, Naparima MP Rodney Charles questioned who appointed the management committee. Meanwhile, UNC Senator Wade Mark said he will not be contesting a post in the internal election, but he looks forward to the results of the election. Asked about MP Rushton Paray possibly contesting a post, Mark said, “We have a democratic party. We are governed by democratic rules and principles. Once you are a member of our party, yes we can have differences because that is what a democracy is about, we have disagreements at the end of the day, but we adhere by the principles and the rules of our party and therefore everyone who is a bonafide valid member of our party financially speaking will be given the opportunity to participate.”
Regarding the by-elections, Mark said nominations have closed and the screening process is ongoing.