PDP board member resigns, reveals more on PDP
At least two People’s Democratic Party (PDP) board members were neither called nor told of the signing of a memorandum of understanding initiated by Lynda Tabuya.
This was revealed by PDP’s former board member Veronica Thoms, who handed her resignation to the board on Monday.
The MOU was signed by Ms Tabuya and Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) leader Sitiveni Rabuka a week ago. Ms Tabuya was named a SODELPA candidate while former PDP member Vijay Singh was appointed a SODELPA vice-president. Referring to a board meeting that was alleged to have been held before Ms Tabuya’s MOU announcement, Ms Thoms said she along with fellow board member Deeyarn King, were not included in any discussion or meetings.
They only found out on Facebook about the MOU signing and upon enquiring she was told they were considered to have resigned or become inactive.
“In neither case was there a written resignation, or written notice of our being removed from the board, nor was an Annual General Meeting called to elect a new board since we were elected prior to the 2014 elections,” Ms Thoms said.
“It seems at least five board members were party to the talks, but beyond them I can’t speak for the others as to whether they are happy with the MOU.
“It’s not clear who the party leader is because Lynda Tabuya can’t stand as a SODELPA candidate and be leader of another party.”
Ms Thoms said she was never notified of any meeting and could not confirm whether Ms Tabuya had resigned.
“I am sure the Supervisor of Elections will ensure there are no irregularities there,” Ms Thoms siad.
“I was told if I had any issues with the decisions that I should speak to her. So it appears she is still acting in the capacity of party leader.”
Ms Thoms said it was now up to members of PDP or the board to call an AGM and decide if they would still have PDP candidates stand in the elections despite the MOU. This is because the MOU has not gone to an AGM or a Special General Meeting.
“So I don’t see how it can be enforced.” Ms Thoms said she handed her resignation to the PDP Board, and has had lots of advice on this.
With the support of her partner she decided to focus on her own business and enjoy her Christmas.
“I never aspired to be a politician, but was active in the last elections because I believe in democracy and free and fair elections,” she said
“I would like to see PDP call an AGM at which they can either accept or reject the MOU, elect a new board, and move forward from there.
“It is time to go back to the members and hear what they think of what has happened. I know if members aren’t happy they still have options that they can explore further.”