Statement from the Watchdog Committee of Civil Society Organisations (CSO) on the political climate in Grenada, as political organisations conduct elections campaigning leading up to the July 8th, 2008 general elections.

Date: July 02, 2008.

Civil Society Organisation (CSO) welcomes the decision by the incumbent New National Party (NNP) to finally agree to be a signatory to The Code of Political Conduct for the July 8th 2008 general elections in Grenada.  The signing, which was held at Knox House, Grand Etang Road, St. George's on July 1st, 2008, was witnessed by members of CSOs and the Watchdog Committee.

Why did the CSOs accept the NNP’s willingness to sign the Code of Political Conduct at this time, just a few days before the General Election?

1.    We are a lobbying, mediating body working in the interest of the Grenadian people.  When the Code was developed and presented to the parties for signing, no cut-off date was given.  CSOs depended on the goodwill and understanding by all the political parties to be willing to be guided by a set of principles for the conduct of free and far elections.  The New National Party seemed to have needed more time and the direct influence of the Grenadian public to help them to come to that decision.  

2.    The Code covers the period of time before elections and extends to the aftermath of the elections.  Therefore, it continues to remain relevant beyond Election Day.  The conduct of all political parties contesting the General Elections can now be subjected to the same level of scrutiny by the public and we can expect a high standard of conduct by all.  

The Watchdog Committee established by Civil Society Organisations (CSO) to monitor and observe the conduct of politicians and political organisations campaigning for the July 8th general elections, is concerned about the many reports and observations of violations and non-compliance to the Code of Political Conduct for Grenada 2008 which was brought to its attention.  Numerous complaints have been received from the general public regarding violations and non compliance of the Code.  

The Committee condemns all acts of non-compliance by all political organisations which violate the principles of the Code of Political Conduct and reminds political organisations which have publicly signed and endorsed the Code to take steps to eliminate these kinds of conduct.  Some which have been investigated and confirmed are:
-    the removal and/or destruction of posters and banners
-    defacing walls, public property and other spaces, including the road ways
-    slashing of vehicle tyres
-    obstructing access for persons living inside some communities
-    confronting individuals in a manner that threatens victimization and discrimination for expressing their political choice, based on the results of the elections  
-    instigation of intolerant behaviour towards persons from opposing political persuasions
-    leveling false accusations against each other
-    repeated embarrassing statements made in regard to persons who received government and party support

The Committee has also investigated some of the specific reports and considered the following:

1.    Reports were received that during an activity organised by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) on Saturday 28th June at the La Sagesse Playing field, St. David, calypsonian Scholar, during his presentation in which he referred to an earlier performance by another artist, made further derogatory comments and reference to women vying for office within the NNP.  This is in violation of Section 2 sub-sections (ii) and (iv), particularly subsection (iv) which state:

“Political organisations agree to refrain from -
(iv) "Making derogatory and degrading comments about women holding public office or offering themselves for public office."

2.    Reports have also been received regarding a performance by a reggae artist, Mr. Vegas during a youth rally in Carriacou organized by the New National Party (NNP) when he referred to women in general in a most derogatory manner.  This is also in violation of Section 2 referred to above.  

3.    Concerns have been expressed about the airing of an advertisement by the New National Party (NNP) being played on the local electronic media in Grenada. The advertisement does not identify its origin but gives the impression that the NDC is apologising to the Grenadian public. The airing of such advertisement, seeking to influence voters, is very misleading and goes contrary to the spirit and letter of the Political Code of Conduct. This act violates Section 2, sub-section (1) which states that, Political parties... agree to refrain from - "The use of half truths, lies, innuendos, bribes and threats to gain political advantage".

4.    There are also reports of non compliance with Section 2, sub-section (xi) which ask political parties to refrain from "The use and abuse of State resources for political campaigns."  To this end, the use of Government owned facilities, vehicles, media and other resources should not be used by any political party for its campaign activities.  We also remind the public that political affiliation should neither be a requirement nor an automatic result for the receipt of benefits from the state.  

The Committee reminds the political organisations that at this time they should be presenting their positions on issues that affect the Grenadian people.  The people expect to learn more of the various proposals for this country.  

We further remind all political organizations of their responsibility to adhere to the Code during their rallies and other political activities as we count down to Election Day - July 8th, 2008.

Finally, we are heartened by the absence of any significant incidents of violence, and we hope that this continues, even improves, for the election, and in its aftermath.

We also urge the general public to exercise their franchise, vote. Vote responsibly for Grenada!

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Tel. 415-2390; 414-4597; 414-7203