In a bold yet ultimately unsuccessful bid to create a unified opposition, the Alliance For Change (AFC) put forth a significantly reduced coalition proposal to the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) on Tuesday, which was swiftly declined.
This proposal, confirmed by AFC sources, signals a steep concession from the party, which has struggled with numerous defections and diminished clout under its new leader, Nigel Hughes. Once advocating for equal power in coalition discussions, they now sought only 35% representation, a stark contrast to their previous demands.
Despite acknowledging a need for collaboration, APNU, led by Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton, objected, notably to the AFC’s insistence on naming the Prime Ministerial candidate. APNU is keen to hold that position themselves.
The AFC’s outlined terms included that APNU would nominate the Presidential candidate, while the AFC’s nominee for Prime Minister would require APNU’s agreement. They proposed a 65-35 seat-sharing ratio and an independently agreed-upon Representative of the List. The Speaker of the National Assembly would also be nominated by the AFC but approved by APNU, along with several other stipulations aiming to ensure balanced governance.
Despite their claims of a “balanced and fair offer,” the AFC believes APNU’s rejection reflects a lack of genuine interest in rekindling their partnership. This rejection comes amidst an unstable internal environment for the AFC, highlighted by defections ahead of the upcoming 2025 General and Regional Elections on September 1.
Source: newsroom.gy
