Choosing MLP leader

The people have the right to know the views, visions and policies of those contesting the Labour Party leadership. How can a person evaluate the intelligence and profile of a person unless one gets it from the horse's mouth? How can the delegates or party members be able to decide who to vote for otherwise?

I believe that the MLP administration should invite the contenders to a series of debates and interviews on One Television conducted by well-known academics who are also political analysts.

Then, in the comfort of their homes and without outside pressures, people would be able to decide who would make the best leader for both the party and the country. Party members have the right to see that the most capable person is chosen. We should think with our heads, not with our hearts.

The person chosen must be able to unite all forces within the party, past and present. Too many people have been sidelined. The intellectual elements of any organisation are the basis for having and achieving a better future for the party. The party simply cannot afford to lose them. The new leader must also appeal to the majority of the electorate and use his or her powers of persuasion to promote progressive policies.

Everyone has the right to their opinion, and one should be praised, not punished, for sticking to one's views, ideals and principles. Now is the time to make up for past mistakes.

If one were to ask me whether I will do what I did 10 years ago, I would say that while upholding my principles, I would, in some circumstances, choose a different path.

The time of decision is now. I believe that all party members should vote in this contest.

Let us do what has to be done. Let us listen and decide. Let us look to the long-term vision of being an electable, progressive and humane party.