In a matter of three weeks, the people of Anguilla will vote in a General Election to choose from among the various political parties and independent candidates whom they want to continue to lead the island into the 21st Century. This is a sacred right, privilege and responsibility of the people themselves.

But it runs into a very interesting situation, which has manifested itself in free and fair elections in every country, where aspiring political groupings or individuals contend that they would, in all probability, be the victors. Call it assertive, imposing, a sure assumption, foolhardy or what you wish, it creates a hope that can in fact turn out to be a bitter experience of disappointment.

Yes, one familiar with voting trends, political support and analysis, may be able to predict the outcome of an election with some degree of accuracy. In many cases, however, it is risky business and mere speculation since it is not always possible to determine the real thinking of a voter. It is only in such countries where there are leaders who have a form of democratic elections, but really care very little about the process, or may well have it stage-managed, that they may influence and say with some boast what the outcome would be.

Hardly anything else in terms of civic responsibility, like voting, can be so agonising or embarrassing to some politically-charged persons when their party or candidate suffers defeat at the polls. Yet it should not be, for many reasons. Chief among them is the fact that the ballot box, rather than the gun, is the democratic way to political power and that all mankind has the inalienable right of freedom of choice and that the will of the majority of people is something to be respected and accepted.

There is no room then for the unfortunate demonstrations and violence which sometimes occur in the wake of an election in some countries, except where there is outright proof of voter-rigging or other forms of fraud. We here in Anguilla should rejoice and take comfort in the fact that we have an election process which, despite the need for reform in some areas, is free, fair and carefully and professionally managed. All that is required is for the electorate to understand and conform to the process.

There are 20 candidates in total contesting the upcoming General Election and there are only seven electoral seats at stake. Obviously not all candidates can be elected however genuine or ready they may be to serve. As we continue towards Election Day it is wise for all parties, candidates and supporters, to keep the level of excitement and expectations of winning subdued and to encourage a spirit of acceptance of the results one way or the other. In this way understanding and tranquility in Anguilla will be better assured, and relationships restored, as those elected prepare to assume the arduous tasks of leadership in these critical times to which we have come.

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