The Next Barbados General Election And The Influence Of The Internet

Submitted by Yardbroom

There is a view, that it is dishonest of some main stream media personnel to suggest that the result of the last general election in Barbados, was not influenced – to some degree – by the varied opinions expressed on the blogs. I am not suggesting the blogs handed victory to one particular party… as that is difficult to prove.  What I am suggesting is that issues generally hidden in Barbados were brought to light; resulting in the electorate ceasing to view “alleged” abnormalities as normal.  This new “participation by observation” nucleus was difficult to assess.  However, the result was a landslide victory, not anticipated by some experienced observers.

This new and different voice was in part the reason why some politicians made serious mistakes.  They equated the numbers commenting, with a set number of votes. not taking cognizance of the “participant observers” to which I have previously alluded.  Those who read, discussed, but never made comments.  It is important to understand Barbadian society; as those who do not can equate call in programmes with the blogs.  Some participants on call in programmes will say what is expected of them depending on party loyalty etc. 

A restraint not always exercised on the blogs.

Astute politicians should catch the public mood and will gather information from “all sources”… a wise thing to do.  A hint of what is blowing in the wind, is often the difference between success and failure in elections.

Before the next general election quite a few new blogs will be started.  Some will be politically motivated and over time this will become apparent.  Others will fail as is the nature of such things and a few will stand the test of time.  Those in the vanguard will no doubt improve by building on their foundations.

Into this mix are the commenters, a few have already positioned themselves ready to lay siege; chameleon like they will switch delivery between standard and colloquial Bajan to give the impression, they are in touch with the boys on the block.  However, their only “constant” is their own agendas.

No criticism intended. We all have agendas, even if not politically motivated.

If I may be so bold, the Internet “will” have a greater impact on the next Barbados General Election than it did on the last.  Why?  Barbadian society and its societal interaction are made for it.  Who will be victorious?  That I do not know, there is a long way to travel, but in most races to win you must be in the right place at the right time.  Perhaps, just perhaps regardless of Party the electorate and the Blogs might be victorious.

A quick recap of the 2008 Election results indicate in about half a dozen consitituencies the margin of victory was just about 300 votes.  It would be unwise of “any” politician to ignore any medium of support.