Political insurgents: Rid the sabotage

Fri, Sept 10, 2010

Editor: Political sabotage, as derived from political uncertainty, is defined as the act of one political camp in an effort to harass, disrupt and or damage the reputation of a political opponent, especially during an electoral campaign.{{more}}

After reading the most recent article entitled, “PM warns public servants not to sabotage government,” I felt obligated to respond to his (the Prime Minister) request.

I would agree with the Prime Minister that he would have to deal with people who intend to solve their political problems in this manner. This is exactly what I have been asking politicians in St Vincent and the Grenadines in my recent articles to this newspaper to avoid. A prime example of this political casuistry is the 1972 United States Watergate Scandal, which cost Richard Nixon his presidency.

In my opinion, I see this as a crime and it should not be encouraged by our citizens. Many political rivals have been imprisoned around the world, especially when the act of sabotage was for extortion purposes.

It is my personal goal to ensure that we change the way politics is practised in St Vincent and the Grenadines. There is an urgent need to discuss issues and challenges and inform the general public how these issues and challenges will be fixed – moving the nation forward.

Vincentians, we are civilized, hardworking and intelligent people and I urge everyone to behave that way. There is no real benefit in politically demoralizing people who do not have the same political suggestions, opinions and ideologies. However, there is a huge difference if we respect each other’s views and merge our efforts to build the nation.

If citizens are dissatisfied with the autocracy and polarization of the governance in St Vincent and the Grenadines, it is an easy fix; just take the frustration when they go to the polls – vote the other party; rather than incriminating themselves.

Politicians and citizens alike must take into consideration that “You cannot please people by doing what they want; you please them by doing the right thing.”

D. Markie Spring
Turks and Caicos Islands