Opposition Leader Ralph Gonsalves on Wednesday outlined a multi-tiered structural approach for the opposition, designed to “turn the setback into an advance” and rebuild the confidence of the people, His initiatives focus on monitoring the new government, protecting constituents, and utilizing expertise through three main bodies.
Gonsalves is currently fashioning an “alternative cabinet” to shadow the government. He has already updated the party’s central executive on its progress, though he notes that not all members are currently available due to travel or illness—specifically mentioning that Kisal is in New York, Camilo was visiting his mother, and Grenville Williams is out of state. He intends to hold a full meeting with all personnel involved in this alternative cabinet soon.
To support the alternative cabinet, Gonsalves is establishing a “core advisory group”. He explains that while some names in this group will be made public, others will remain private depending on their professional situations or personal preferences. He openly invites interested individuals with expertise to contact him directly if they wish to be part of this group, emphasizing that he is personally coordinating these efforts.
Perhaps the most significant grassroots initiative Gonsalves detailed on Wednesday is the formation of “People’s Defense Committees” in various communities. He was careful to define their nature and purpose to avoid misinterpretation.
“Let me explicitly state that despite the name, these committees have “nothing to do with anything involving force” or violence. I am making it plain to counter the “NDP crazies” who might suggest I want to overthrow the government”.
He reiterates that violence and coercion are not part of the Unity Labour Party’s methods.
Gonsalves said the PDCs are designed for “representation” to “defend and extend the people’s gains”. Their primary method is to “observe and report”.
Monitoring Duties:
Victimization: They will track acts of political victimization, such as politicians using the police to harass individuals.
Property Rights: Gonsalves specifically tasks them with monitoring instances where trucks are sent to reclaim building materials legitimately given to citizens under the previous administration’s housing program.
Infrastructure Projects: They will monitor the status of public projects to see if work has stopped, citing examples like the educational wellness center in Park Hill and the bus stop in Colonarie.
Gonsalves has asked Saboto Caesar to coordinate the PDCs at the national level and stated that these structures are essential for a “sober” and “reflective” opposition that remains grounded in the communities to correct mistakes and rebuild support.