Two political parties merge to form ‘dream team’

THE political landscape in Barbados has shifted once again, this time with a merger of two of the newer parties, as preparations for the not yet announced elections start to intensify on the island.

In a statement issued yesterday it was revealed that it was unanimously agreed that the Citizens Action Partnership should cease operations to facilitate a merger with United Progressive Party (UPP) following a meeting held on December 6. The UPP is led by Lynette Eastmond while Wendell Callender led the CAP.

According to the statement: “Consideration was given to the fact that the objectives and programmes of both groups were compatible enough to allow for easy transfer of candidates from CAP. The synergies to be created through consolidation of human and other resources were seen as a very positive feature which would be mutually beneficial.”

“Members expressed confidence that the united approach to election campaigning in the upcoming General Elections will impact very positively on the election result for the combined team of CAP and UPP.”

“It was observed that there should be no brand divergence and UPP was seen as a recognisable brand, which had gained much prominence from which it was felt greater momentum could be quickly realized. The attractiveness of the slogan ‘UPP de ting’ was also commended.”
Eastmond’s Cabinet experience; professional training; ministerial and private sector track record; and character to be a very effective leader and that with combined resources now available to her would be highly successful as a leader of Barbados, noted Callender. “The members expressed approval of the leadership of Lynette Eastmond and indicated no reservation about working under her leadership.”

The members agreed to make any sacrifices which would ensure a smooth merger of the two organisations. These sacrifices included changes in constituencies to which some of them were previously allocated. It was recognized that this merger will serve to place the UPP in a greater state of readiness for the General Elections at this time.

“This new arrangement allows for no divergence of political branding. We deem it prudent to now operate under the banner of the UPP and our candidates who have transferred to UPP will shortly be using all signature items of the UPP including logos, colours, slogans and other related materials.”

“Barbados comes first. We therefore wish to ensure that this multi-talented group of persons has a great chance to make a change that will benefit Barbados. With this merger a ‘dream team’ has been created to guide Barbados at this time when so many challenges confront this country.”

“We urge all our supporters, well-wishers, and others who wish the best for Barbados to support the UPP under this new and exciting arrangement. ‘UPP de ting!’” the statement said.

In addition to the two main political parties and the UPP, still in the race are Solutions Barbados, New Barbados Kingdom Alliance and the Barbados Integrity Movement.