General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Dr Bharrat Jagdeo says he is convinced that the coalition Government will do all in its power to destroy the reputation of more PPP members but more so those who would contest for the potion of becoming the next presidential candidate.
While providing an update on the process of selecting a presidential candidate for the PPP, Jagdeo said that he believes strongly that the coalition will go after whoever is chosen to represent the party.
He told a press conference on Thursday that they have started going after the impeccable reputation of some of the most former senior government officials under the PPP that have served with distinction.
“I won’t put it pass them… They can charge anyone, make up any charge”, Jagdeo responded as he said that the party’s Central Executive Committee (CC) will have to decide on the way forward if such a situation does arise as it will cross that bridge when the times comes.
His comments come at time when the Government has been accused of utilizing several independent agencies including the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), State Assets Recovery Agency (SARA) and other senior persons to achieve political objectives by charging and arresting former PPP MPs, Ministers and other professionals perceived to be associated with the PPP.
While on the subject of a presidential candidate, the PPP General Secretary explained that anyone from the party would be allowed to compete for the candidacy.However, he noted that a prospective contender would first have to be nominated.
He said that the presidential candidate for the PPP is usually elected through a secret ballot process that involves the 35-member Central Committee.
Jagdeo refused to endorse any candidate or state who he supports or favours for the post as he said that it would be unethical for him to do so publicly and prematurely as there is a process to be followed internally.
He also expressed the view that he would not be inclined to make any such pronouncements publicly as these are sensitive matters which must be determined and debated by the PPP and its leaders thoroughly internally.
He did disclose however, that the party remains committed to the highest levels of transparency, accountability and democracy as it undertakes the process of selecting its next presidential nominee.
