Where was the AFC in push for change

Guyana360: Subsequent to this post, we were able to dig up evidence of history dating back to September 9, 2000 where the First third Force Summit did not include current AFC players.

Strong Movement towards a Solid Third Force Likely in Guyana -
Elections should be based on Facts and Issues. PUP Calls for Renewing Guyana's
Purpose.

The People's Unity Party (PUP) made a public call today for a summit of the Guyana 3rd parties. There are currently over 20 parties registered with the Elections Commission in addition to the 2 leading parties, the PPP/Civic and the PNC/Reform. The PUP believes that a few 3rd parties joining together will provide a unified front to be able to compete against the PPP/Civic and the PNC/Reform in the upcoming elections. In the past year, the PUP has initiated several meetings with other parties and has been laying the groundwork for such a force.

Peter Ramsaroop, leader of the PUP, stressed, "It is important for us to put our egos aside and do what is best for Guyana. We will decide together who is the best Presidential candidate and which is the best party name and symbol to adapt." The joining together of this unified front has been scheduled for October 2000. Mr. Ramsaroop also stressed that there are certain foundational principles that this unified front will adapt including “a no tolerance stand against corruption, high ethics, integrity, and morals.

He continued by saying "we cannot play the race card in this election and we cannot unite with other parties that are involved in such activities. It is time for a true change in Guyana politics where issues are the focus, not race."

Mr. Ramsaroop also welcomed the comments by Mr. Patrick Yarde, President of the Guyana Public Service Union (Stabroek News 08/09/00) who called for its members to be guided by facts and issues in this upcoming election.

Mr. Ramsaroop added that according to the same article in the Stabroek News "The
General Elections 2001 offer an opportunity to exert influence on the course the society will follow, Yarde noted."

Renewing Guyana's Purpose will be a key topic among the third parties during this summit. Key issues on Educating Every Child, Creating a culture of Achievement in Education, Promoting strong families, Improving Health Care, the Economy, Environment and Entrepreneurship and Tax cuts with a purpose and overall Government Reform will be discussed.