Election code of conduct - Integrity Group Barbados

Election code of conduct

As Barbados prepares for its general elections, political parties will be engaging in a healthy exchange of debates on how to take the country forward. With numerous issues facing the island, ideally, political campaigns should be solution driven and policy oriented. Unfortunately, campaigns often include personal attacks, intimidation and slander which overshadow worthwhile discussions on solutions and development plans for the island. They also minimize the importance of giving every citizen of voting age an opportunity to determine how to exercise their democratic right at the polls. Instances of indecent and valueless political displays are unfitting for those vying for political office, and should be prevented from being a part of our political discourse.

Political conduct

This will require establishing rules that govern political practitioners’ conduct, while holding them accountable when they fail to adhere to these rules. Given the significance of the upcoming elections, we must demand of our politicians that their political exchanges are worthy of national discussion. We must also demand that their conduct is respectful and reasonable, and that their dialogue is mature and instructive, and leaves the public capable of making informed voting decisions.

One method of achieving this is to have all political parties sign an electoral code of conduct which comprises a set of rules that govern their behaviour during campaigns. Part of this code could insist that politicians stick to the issues facing the country and refrain from unproductive political mud-slinging. Signing a code of conduct contributes to the integrity of elections and can set the tone for the governing tenure of the successful signatories.

We must treat our citizens with respect

When politicians can with impunity, use intimidating language or innuendo towards individuals, the foundation for future instances of political victimization is set. Additionally, when journalist and media houses are attacked merely for doing their jobs, future disregard for the media is likely to follow. Therefore, it is vital that there is an understanding that these occurrences should not occur or go unchecked and that the perpetrators are held accountable.

Enforcing a code of conduct

Given that legislative backing for an electoral code of conduct is presently unlikely as we approach elections, alternative methods of accountability should be considered. One possibility is the approach that has been taken in other Caribbean territories, where civil society groups like the church could promote a code for political parties to review and sign.  When political parties and candidates violate this of a code of conduct, it sends strong signal about their integrity.

Why political parties should support a code of conduct

A code of conduct should be welcomed by political parties as a could provide them with an electoral advantage. Contrary to some concerns, codes of conducts are not limits on political parties but rather a chance to increase their vote share. There are many young and independent electors who are discouraged by the indecent conduct of some political practitioners. Therefore, if political parties and candidates sign a code of conduct and adhere to it, this could attract voters. Following a code of conduct could also help to prevent instances where party members may be forced to defend or repudiate, indecent behaviour by their colleagues, that could undermine the party.

Establishing an electoral code of conduct therefore is an initiative that we as a country could support. As Barbadians, we should expect those who are vying for the highest offices in the land, to conduct themselves with respect, dignity and integrity deserving of that office. We should also expect that the quality of political discourse would be elevated to reflect the urgency of these times.

What should be included in an electoral code of conduct at a minimum