EDITORIAL - Exercise your right to vote

Sometime within the next few months Barbados will have a new government. Whether the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) retains its control of Parliament, the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) sweeps to power, or the United Progressive Party breaks the mould of the two-party political environment, the next General Election will once again be an exercise in
democracy for this island.

None of it would be possible, however, if Barbadians refuse to vote.

The term “going to the polls” signifies the actions of an electorate and it is only through their actions that democracy can be achieved. Therefore it is disconcerting to hear members of the public proclaim their intent to withhold their votes.

From as far back as the last elections, people have expressed their discontent with Government’s policies, the Opposition’s proposals, and the behaviour of politicians from both sides of the aisle. In the past, various surveys and interviews with people of voting age revealed strong alignments along party lines, but also unearthed a large section of undecided voters, many who were completely disinterested with politics, and even more who were dead set against all political parties.

Added to this general feeling of dissatisfaction are the current economic, environmental and social challenges facing this island. And, with the constant “doom and gloom’ speeches which increase with the impending elections, it is no wonder that many Barbadians may not feel motivated to vote.

One could understand the jaded feeling that comes after months of talk about the General Elections, especially for those who are struggling with personal, financial and other problems. However, it is imperative that the bigger picture comes into focus and personal interests and biases be discarded. The candidate selected, and hence the government elected, will have a direct influence on national policies, which will in turn affect your daily lives. In short, you are sealing your own fate with your actions or inactions. It is your right to vote, so exercise your right!

Both young and old in today’s society should acknowledge the privilege of being granted the right to vote when millions of people across the globe are fighting every day and losing life and limb for the chance to cast their ballot. Barbadian women, especially, should be proud, since some nations still do not have universal suffrage and, as a result, women are prohibited from voting in a few Mideast and Asian states. How then could one think for even a minute of not exercising that right, which inevitably decides such major aspects of our daily lives?

The Barbados Advocate is therefore calling on all Barbadians to be responsible and play an active role in this election. We urge everyone to take in the political rallies from all parties and listen to the proposals from independents as well. Make sure you are well informed on all the pertinent issues affecting you and your country before making your final decision, but make a decision; that is what is important.