In another place this writer has expressed a preference for proportional representation in Tobago House of Assembly elections as against the winner takes all, first past the post system. Indeed, I am of the view that this method of seat allocation ought to be applied in Local Government elections as well.
This argument is based on the need for greater inclusion and less alienation in governance through closer communication between the voter and his or her representative, thereby leading to a more democratic and easier process. Such a system would seem to be more suited to a relatively small society as Tobago.
Were a "crude" system of proportional representation applied in the recent Tobago House of Assembly elections, the out turn would have been as follows:
Needless to say, such an allocation would have avoided the present imbroglio which has not only left the Assembly without an official opposition but has also, in effect, "disenfranchised" approximately one-third of the voting electorate.
This writer would urge that tinkering with the legislation in order to provide the semblance of an "official opposition", of sorts at this time, ought not to be entertained and that consideration be given to introducing a system of proportional representation not only for THA elections, but also in respect of Local Government, (and even national elections) in future. There are, of course many variations of the "PR".
Errol Cupid,
Trincity, Tacarigua