COP/UNC accord commits parties to integrity

The political accord worked out between the Congress of the People (COP) and the United National Congress (UNC) goes beyond an accommodation to win an election and it commits both parties to a code of conduct that will guide members in Parliament and in government.

It also addresses the more immediate issue of a joint platform for the May 24 general election.

According to the document, there will be a joint campaign committee that will plan and execute election activities, including joint public meetings. In addition there will be a collaborate communications program that will market the accord and the common programs and policies.

While there is agreement for meetings involving both parties on a common platform the accord also allows each party to organize separate public meetings in their own constituencies.

And there is a commitment for both parties not to compete against each other.

Each party also agrees to foster goodwill among their respective members and that all disputes, differences, claims or controversies will be referred to a mediation panel comprising one person appointed by each party and a third person jointly appointed by the party mediators.

The accord also sets out clearly principles to guide members in their activities in public life. These include a commitment to:

• Make decisions based solely in terms of the public interest
• Ensure that they are not under any financial or other obligation to outside individuals or organisations that might influence them in the performance of their official duties
• Make choices based on merit in carrying out public business
• Be accountable for their decisions and actions to the public
• Submit themselves to whatever scrutiny is appropriate to their office
• Be as open as possible about all the decisions and actions that they take
• Declare any private interests relating to their public duties and take steps to resolve any conflicts arising in a way that protects the public interest
• Commit to frank and patient dialogue, recognizing that diversity can become an opportunity for greater understanding

With respect to Parliamentary conduct the accord commits members to base their conduct on a consideration of the public interest, avoid conflict between personal interest and the public interest and to immediately resolve any conflict between the two in favour of the public interest.

It also commits members to conduct themselves in a manner that will maintain and strengthen the public's trust and confidence in the integrity of Parliament and to ensure that their actions never bring into disrepute, the Parliament or its members.

It prohibits any bribes or favours in connection with the promotion of, or opposition to, any bill, motion, or other matter submitted to or intended to be submitted to the Parliament.

The accord also commits members to submit fully to the requirements of the Integrity in Public Life Act.