The two main political parties here have signed a Code of Ethical Political Conduct ahead of the November 27 general elections.
The ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) and the main opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) signed the code developed by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Christian Council’s National Monitoring and Consultative Mechanism(NMCM).
The NMCM said that the code is intended to achieve several objectives, including fostering of democracy ‘through peaceful, free and fair elections conducted when they are constitutionally due in which voters are allowed to cast their ballots freely, without interference, fear, intimidation or bribery’
It is also intended for the promotion of respect for human rights, the pursuit of civil and political liberties, the tolerance of divergent opinions, full and active participation of all in the political process as well as encouraging participation in the electoral process by the people and to uphold their right to make political choices.
The code is also to ensure ‘the election process is free from fear, intimidation and violence’ with the NMCM also urging the political parties and other stakeholders to adhere to the letter and spirit of the Representation of the People Act.