Panton-led UDP Chairperson comments on color decision

One of the many concerns over the decision by the Elections Commission has to do with voter confusion.  It is feared that the usage of red for both factions will cause issues at the polls on March 12.  According to the two factions of the UDP, they don’t think it will, but they do share different opinions on the commission’s rationale. The commission members were given six options to vote on and decided both could use the UDP Red with symbols to differentiate them. It seeks to lessen the confusion in constituencies where two or more persons want to run under the UDP banner. Sheena Pitts, Chairperson of the Panton-led UDP, spoke about the decision and why she believes a final determination will be made until nomination day.

Sheena Pitts, Chairperson (Panton UDP): “An invitation was made to consider a symbol to distinguish the UDP standard bearers going up for elections. So that’s my understanding of what occurred and the decision and where we’re now at. And as I understand it what remains outstanding is an indication from the UDP persons to inform the Elections and Boundaries Commission whether or not they would use a symbol in addition to the color red.” 

Reporter: Does Ms.Panton’s camp see  this as a win that you guys can use the color red? 
Sheena Pitts, Chairperson (Panton UDP):“Well we are UDPs and the color for UDP is red and it’s just that in my view. That is not a win. That is the rightful thing. We don’t know yet that there will be symbols, right? So I don’t want you to proceed on the understanding that there will be. I am saying that what we know for certain is that all UDP standard bearers would be able to use red. And what remains outstanding is whether or not anyone would opt to use an accompanying symbol. Now, whether or not that, if it comes to that, whether or not that would be confusing it remains the obligations of the party to do voter education. And you heard the Chief Elections Officer say just that, that voter education is important. And I think what is remarkable about this very special election this year is that you will see democracy at play when voters go to the poll they will vote for the candidate.”

The Panton-led UDP says it plans to announce it slate tomorrow morning.