CPA puts Government on notice on Avant-Garde, student attack

• Local think-tank says perception is growing that all politicians are the same
• Seeks clarification from Justice Minister about his role in Avant-Garde probe

The Centre for Policy Alternatives yesterday warned the Government that it could confront a major shift in the balance of power, fatally compromising the gains made in January and August 2015 for good governance and democracy.

Condemning statements made by Government Ministers on the ongoing Avant-Garde probes and the recent violence unleashed against a student demonstration, CPA said the two events were adversely impacting governance in the country.

CPA said that there was “cynicism abroad” that all politicians were the same and that “deals will always be struck”.

“Were this perception allowed to become widespread in the absence of Government action to reverse it through renewed, demonstrable commitment to governance and declared ‘zero’ tolerance of corruption, the gains of January and August 2015 could be fatally compromised,” the civil society organization emphasised.

CPA warned that the balance of power could “shift and quickly,” and called for swift and decisive action.

“Perception matters in politics. Principle always does. The balance of political power could shift and quickly, not because the previous dispensation and its torchbearers in active politics are looking good and providing an attractive alternative, but because the Government is too soon appearing to be wanting on principle and performance,” the civil society group asserted. (DB)