Scrap race card in politics

Our country has a history of being plagued with the politics of racial divide and rule for decades. The political landscape has seen races being ascribed to political parties because of the majority composition of their base of members and supporters.

It is noteworthy to recognise that the rapid emergence of the category of the “mixed race” commands the largest category of citizens. This is the reality of our plural society and the cultural realities have started to transcend the old-school race-dominant argument in politics.

This has, therefore, created a different environment for political parties and a more complex dynamic for political campaigns and marketing. The reality is none of our current political entities can win an election now or in the near future with only base or race support. Political parties need national appeal and the support of “on the fence” voters.

This has, therefore, added a refreshing dynamic to our politics as parties are now challenged to be truly nationalistic in their representation. The strategy for any successful political party has to involve presenting itself as a representation of the wider more diverse cross section of ethnicities and other diversities present in our society.

The race card is not as significant as it used to be and the population has gladly embraced this truism. We now see the widely growing group of undecided voters, looking at issues, plans and policies instead of blind, tribal party loyalty based on race.

The United National Congress (UNC) when pulling together various political parties to fight the 2010 elections would have benefitted from this cross-over appeal. This won them the 2010 general elections and local elections but after the break up of the partnership, the UNC was unable to win any elections thereafter standing alone.

The People’s National Movement (PNM) has always done considerably better as a stand-alone party in demonstrating diversity, even though their largest base was of a particular race. The PNM stepped up its efforts after losing two national elections in 2010. The party has now presented a new look, new plan, new campaign and a even more diverse nationalistic image and has, therefore, won every election thereafter 2010 to date.