By Mark DaCosta- As the September 1 General and Regional Elections approach, the political landscape in our nation has become increasingly fragmented. The Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has firmly dismissed any notions of forming alliances with other political parties, while the Alliance for Change (AFC) appears desperate to secure a coalition arrangement, willing to partner with anyone but the incumbent People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C). This dichotomy illustrates the divergent strategies of two parties that were once unified in their electoral pursuits.
In a recent weekly press briefing, APNU’s presidential candidate, Aubrey Norton, reiterated the party’s commitment to contest the elections independently. He asserted that there have been no discussions regarding potential partnerships with other political factions. “As relates to joinder, we have not been involved in any joinder at least not up to this stage with anyone,” he declared, indicating a resolve to rely solely on their own electoral support. Norton’s stance stands in stark contrast to the AFC’s apparent willingness to engage with various parties, albeit with the exception of the PPP/C, which they have categorically ruled out as a potential partner.
One analyst’s observations regarding Norton’s position are particularly critical, suggesting that his confidence may stem from his perception of the APNU’s standing within the electorate. However, the analyst raised concerns regarding the erosion of support within the APNU ranks, claiming that high-ranking members are departing and grassroots backing seem to be swinging is to emerging factions like the WIN party, led by Azruddin Mohamed.
Under Guyana’s proportional representation system, parties can enter into a “joinder list” before elections, allowing them to aggregate their votes for a collective seat allocation strategy. This mechanism permits parties to maintain their individual identities during the campaign while maximising their potential seats in Parliament post-election. However, with the deadline for submitting such arrangements looming and APNU opting not to engage in any preliminary discussions, the feasibility of an electoral coalition seems to be slipping away.
Conversely, AFC Chairman David Patterson has been vocal about seeking collaborations, exploring ways to align with other parties to amplify their electoral strength. “We are looking at all possibilities and all avenues,” he stated, embodying a dissimilar approach compared to the APNU’s solo strategy. Patterson’s comments reflect a pressing desire to connect with potential allies, particularly given the AFC’s turbulent recent history. Their previous coalitions with the APNU resulted in both successes and setbacks, particularly evident in the declining electoral returns witnessed during the recent Local Government Elections.
Citing resource constraints as a significant factor, Patterson explained the party’s openness to forming alliances. “We will continue knocking on doors until the eleventh hour,” he remarked. His party, overcoming the disappointment from the failed coalition talks with APNU earlier this year, now faces the daunting task of entering the elections as a solo act. Despite their past successes, many observers have noted the AFC’s struggles, compounded by the party’s failure to capture significant voter support in recent elections.
In a further attempt to quell concerns surrounding their candidacy prospects, the AFC has remained tight-lipped about their Prime Ministerial candidate. Patterson confirmed his non-candidacy but refrained from unveiling the identity of their chosen leader, suggesting this announcement could come “[this] week.” His insistence that internal processes and consultations were ongoing appeared to allay fears of disorganisation within the party. “We have a comprehensive approach to it. We are working with the programme that we have… and it’s working well so far,” he continued, attempting to project an image of unity despite speculation of disarray.
As the AFC grapples with its internal dynamics and external pressures, the question of candidates looms large. As they seek to build a coalition, their strategies will be under scrutinised, particularly in light of previous unsuccessful attempts to sustain electoral alliances. The urgency of partnering with other parties becomes increasingly pertinent as they strive to navigate the precarious political terrain leading to the upcoming elections.
This evolving political narrative underscores the volatility within our country’s political landscape, with alliances waning and emerging parties vying for influence. With the APNU staunchly adhering to its independent course, and the AFC casting a wide net for potential partners, the upcoming elections promise to be a pivotal moment for both parties and the nation’s democracy at large. The differing approaches of these once-unified allies will undoubtedly shape the electoral outcomes and future political affiliations.
