Towards better political talent

THE EDITOR: Some time ago, I made the observation that the Prime Minister had been hogging so much of the political limelight as to convey the distinct impression that many of his ministers lacked the wherewithal to fulfil successfully the tasks to which they had been assigned.

I was at pains to point out that while the Westminster tradition had been based on the principle of “primus inter pares” (first among equals), with time this has itself been modified to a state akin somewhat to what is now being regarded as “prime ministerial dictatorship” – a situation which has its origin in the predominance of the “party” and its leadership in the parliamentary process/electoral apparatus.

It should be noted, however, that recent developments in the UK (such as Brexit and now Windrush) have shown that the pendulum has been tending towards a reversal of this tendency and a restatement of the “popular will.”

The most recent reshuffling of his Cabinet has brought to the fore elements of our political system which, in my view, do not reflect favourably on the politics of TT – a situation which, I am however to make clear, encompasses not only the current Government side but also the Opposition. Thus the impression among the public is that:

(a) Many MPs do not possess the political flavour and clout which their offices demand. Indeed, in the case of ministers, in addition to these qualities – qualities which make for generating interest within the body politic – it appears that many ministers have not – not even now – been gifted with the administrative acumen which allows them to perform, with confidence and thus, successfully, the tasks which their appointments require. Indeed, it is clear that, upon assuming office, many did not possess, nor have they since acquired, the necessary relevant experience.

(b) Some MPs do not measure up to being even sound representatives of the constituency for which they had been (s)elected. Indeed, here one may be excused for calling into question also the role of local government representatives who, invariably, are not seen by their constituents after their being elected.

(c) Given the configuration of the membership of the House of Representatives, once one finds himself/herself elected to the House, it almost guarantees appointment to some level in the administration – appointments which may bear little or no relationship to performance and, given that there is no constitutional provision for removal from the House, a prime minister may have no alternative but to shift his/her ministers in order to put together the semblance of a workable administration. It also points to the need for “responsible” selection of candidates for a general election.

(d) Needless to say, the situation at item © is made none the better given the large unwieldy plethora of State enterprises and statutory authorities – the existence of some of which may be called into question – over which ministers have responsibility.

(e) Those MPs who may not find themselves fortunate to have received appointment within the administration appear to be “lame ducks,” being not distinguished by being engaged in work within their constituency.

The above points immediately to a need for reform in some areas. Above all, one can sympathise with the situation in which a prime minister or a leader of the opposition could find himself /herself if hamstrung with members who happen to be not “up to mark.” I venture to suggest the need for:

(1) Amendment of the Constitution providing for recall, including recall based on a vote within a constituency. Indeed, the principle of recall, if for nothing else, could instil, within the body politic, an element of “control” which could impel representatives to be more caring for, and being less of a “master” of, the electorate.

(2) Most important, review of the mechanism being employed in the selection of candidates for both national and local government elections. In his regard, it is clear that the processes being employed by political parties do not now “throw up” the best talents available. The stalwarts of yesteryears are no longer to be heard and seen.

ERROL OC CUPID
, Tacarigua