Creativity was the order of the day
Published:Sunday | September 8, 2019 | 12:00 AMAndre Williams/Staff Reporter
Dancehall, soca and even some gospel music blared from the speakers of both the Rise United camp, led by Peter Bunting, and Dr Peter Phillips’ One PNP camp yesterday, as delegates were kept energised during the high-tension presidential election that ended in a close call.
Phillips retained the leadership of the party with 1,427 votes to Bunting’s 1,351 votes – a 76-vote difference.
By midday, the grounds on the outskirts of the National Arena could have easily been mistaken for the headquarters of the People’s National Party (PNP).
Much of the talk dominating the space was that when all is said and done, the PNP will stand firm, as the elected leader guide the 81-year-old party to victory in the next general election.
At times, however, tensions were high, as supporters of both presidential candidates were in each other’s faces, even getting physical.
At one point, the police were caught in a shoving contest with delegates who pushed over the security barrier in a heat to cast their votes.
In one incident, councillors Eugene Kelly (supporter of Rise United) and Venesha Phillips (supporter of One PNP) had to be separated as, with tempers flaring, they did not mince words.
“A one party and no matter who win, we afi go face the JLP as a dominant PNP,” a supporter declared.
No doubt, the legion of both Rise United’s orange and black and One PNP’s orange and white were out in full force.
MUSICAL CREATIVITY
Musical creativity was most definitely on display.
One PNP boasted specials and dubplates from the likes of Masicka, Hot Frass, Shane O and Dovey Magnum. Music was provided by Stone Love and Katarock Sound.
The music selection for the Rise United camp, provided by Ricky Trooper and Lovers Choice, had the gathering in a party atmosphere rather than election mode.
A Own Lane dubplate for Peter Bunting, done by recording artiste Teejay, was met with loud cheers from the audience.
Both camps used creative mechanisms to mobilise supporters. Large, small and medium-size transportation, including golf carts, were used to transport voters.
Food was also available in abundance for all the delegates.