Keeping rallies separate

Tue, Mar 20th 2012, 08:16 AM

The newspapers on Monday were dominated by the allegation of assault against the daughter of Free National Movement (FNM) East Grand Bahama candidate Peter Turnquest.
Turnquest has confirmed he made a formal complaint to police. She was caught in the fray when FNM and Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) supporters came together in separate motorcades in Grand Bahama on Saturday.
According to Turnquest, people on the PLP motorcade allegedly sprayed people on the FNM motorcade with a fire extinguisher, hitting several people in the face.
PLP Deputy Leader Philip Brave Davis also told The Nassau Guardian he heard that people on his party's motorcade were assaulted by the throwing of rocks and water. He added that he was unable to confirm if that really was the case, but that Bahamians should not act in such a way.
On the campaign trail there are many people who lose control. Some are intoxicated; some are overcome with election fever. Our parties and law enforcement officers must be practical during this period. Party motorcades, marches and similar events should not be allowed to intersect. This would prevent events such as those being alleged from ever happening again.
Now, that being said, Bahamians must be more sensible and responsible. Historically, our politics have not been violent. We must all work to keep it this way. We should all respect the right of other citizens to express their views. It is fine to have vigorous debates and even arguments, but the 'clash' should end there. A small fight between two supporters when these groups collide could lead to a riot. No sensible person would want that.
All of our political leaders should condemn whatever violence occurred during that event. Our political leaders should also tell their people to calm down.
Thousands of people have been coming out to political events this election season - which is good. We should all feel proud that so many Bahamians want to be part of the process. But there is a responsibility involved with participation in politics.
Democracy is about the freedom of choice. Those who oppose what you believe have as much right to believe it as you do what you believe. They also have as much right as you do to demonstrate their affection for their party.
These are simple things. Overly enthusiastic supporters out there who resort to violence and assault should be arrested and prosecuted. Police should be aggressive in this regard to send a message that this will not be tolerated.

Click here to read more at The Nassau Guardian

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