Code of Ethical Political Conduct
MEDIA RELEASE - July 25th, 2023
STATEMENT ON THE COUNCIL'S DELIBERATION
The Council for Responsible Political Behaviour met on Monday July 24, 2023, and considered two complaints which were submitted by the United National Congress (UNC). The first complaint related to the language used by Dr Keith Rowley on the PNM platform at a meeting in San Fernando on Saturday July 15, 2023. The UNC claimed that Dr Rowley’s statements were based on a false and unsubstantiated allegation which was inflammatory, divisive, and had the potential of inciting violence. A review of the recording noted that Dr Rowley did not name any party or person, but based on the policy proposal being discussed, it was clear that reference was being made to the UNC and its female leader. Within the ‘Commitment’ section of the Code of Ethical Political Conduct it is accepted that policies and/or programmes as advocated by other parties are open to criticism, and to this extent there was no breach of the Code. However, in making the said criticisms of policies as advocated by the UNC, Dr Rowley went on to allude to events which have not been linked to the UNC and as such, those statements can be deemed to be unsubstantiated allegations, and this is in breach of the Code. Continuing this part of his speech, Dr Rowley, again without calling any name, but still referring to the policy proposed by the UNC, spoke in derogatory terms of a Political leader. This is unacceptable and to that end he is in clear breach of the clause of the Code which reads:
Not make false or defamatory allegations in print or speech in connection with an election in respect of a Party, its Candidates, representatives or members.
Turning to the second complaint that was also submitted by the UNC, and was also reported in the print media of Monday July 24, 2023. Here reference is made to the advertising flyers of two PNM Candidates in the Mayaro/Rio Claro Regional Corporation. The complaint by the UNC is that these PNM candidates are advertising themselves as having the ability to assist or facilitate the access to state-controlled grants. Two flyers were supplied to the Council, and while one speaks to “offering assistance to the public” the other is more bold and troubling since, under the candidate’s name, it simply states “Apply Now - Grants available.” That flyer goes on to list items such as ‘Food Card,’ ‘House Wiring,’ ‘HDC housing,’ ‘Public Assistance and many more’ and thereafter gives contact information. The Council in investigating the authenticity of this flyer was advised to visit the campaign office of the candidate to follow up, thereby further giving the impression that one can apply and be afforded grants from a PNM campaign office. While it is not improper to offer assistance in completing the application form for grants or even for HDC houses, the tone of the second flyer, however, is not focussed on assistance, and to this end, this flyer presents itself as an inducement for persons to visit the campaign offices of PNM candidates in order that they access various state managed services. With the PNM holding the central government, these advertisements give the impression that state resources are being channelled through the campaign offices of PNM candidates. The Code specifically states that it is "prohibited to use funds derived from any source, public or private, to improperly influence electoral choices.”
Amongst the “Objectives” of the Code of Ethical Political Conduct is the need to “Foster Democracy through peaceful, free and fair elections ... in which voters are permitted to cast their ballots freely, without interference, fear, intimidation or bribery.” It is the expectation that in any election there will be a level playing field for all to participate. The Council for Responsible Behaviour which is tasked to monitor adherence to the Code relies only on moral suasion as well as in advising the public at large of instances whereupon the Code of Ethical Political Conduct may have been violated. Based on the complaints considered above, the Council calls once again on Dr Rowley to be mindful of the use of language in the campaign. The Council also calls on the PNM to ensure that its candidates desist from giving the impression that grants can be on offer as inducements, particularly so when such will utilize state resources. With respect to the use of state resources, the ‘Prohibited Conduct’ section of the Code, directs that Political Parties agree to:
“Not permit the use and abuse of State resources for political campaigns.”
Beyond these specific concerns, the Council reiterates its call to ALL Political leaders, Political Parties, Candidates to obey the Code which your leaders have endorsed.
As we continue to monitor this campaign, the Council again invites Political Parties, Candidates, and members of the public to report any possible violations to the Code. Such reports can be sent to the Council by email to info@politicalethicstt.org.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of the Council,
Dr. Bishnu Ragoonath
Chairman