Source: www.guardian.co.tt
By Brian Lewis
In one week, the Peoples Partnership would have been in government for one year. The coalition of parties came into power on a platform of a commitment to transparency and accountability in public life. Their unambiguous advocacy was a political expression that found resonance with the electorate. This political expression gave a voice to an electorate that felt it had been ignored, taken for granted or taken for a ride.
Our institutions of state appeared to deny people the power to hold them to account. One year ago the electorate responded on the basis that the Peoples Partnership would set an example for the rest of the public sector. Presumption of innocence is a legal principle but it is not a principle of political life.
There are many who must now take stock of themselves. Good Governance and its many issues including conflict of interest are easy to talk about from an academic, self-righteous and theoretical perspective.
For some, the thorny issue of conflict of interest is about not getting caught rather than an unwavering commitment to the principles of good governance. It is a huge difference when you are in the hot seat and the issues come close to home. The social and political landscape, not only here in T&T, but around the world has always fought a battle with the issue of conflict of interest. It is also complicated by the understandable need to place your trust in those who you perceive as being trustworthy and loyal. Invariably it is this group of trusted lieutenants who present the greatest threat.
The political drama of the past week is one that should cause the sporting fraternity to pay attention and consider the message and lessons that are most evident. Problems caused by conflict of interest issues can be avoided and or mitigated once there is a clear understanding of the importance of delineation of roles and responsibilities. I agree, simple to state hard to implement. Why? The reality is that T&T is a small island state and therefore how do you deal with the fact that most organisations depend on a small band of loyal supporters. It’s not easy and will never be easy. But the complications are never an excuse. National sport organisations are not private businesses. Public sector organisations are not private organisations. So it is a fact of life that they are all held to a higher standard of behaviour and conduct.
Saying that that is how it was done before is not a credible excuse. Change was made because there were legitimate expectations that individuals capable of rising above narrow political views and ambitions were now running the country and by extension setting the climate for how social, sport and business life is conducted here in T&T. Any fallout from the recent conflict of interest issue should be used as an opportunity for introspection and reflection. “Those who live in glass houses should not throw stones.” The saying that comes to mind is: “Mind your business. Fix your house first before you fix your neighbours.” Conflict of interest becomes a major issue when there is a misunderstanding and overlap of roles and responsibilities. Who makes policy? Who implements and executes?
What is the role of NSOs? What is the role of Government? What is the role of the Ministry of Sport? What is the role of the Minister? What is the role of the Permanent Secretary? What is the role of Sport Company? Is there still a role for a Sport Commission? Is the National Sport Policy still relevant? "The Chinese say that crisis is opportunity" or "…in crisis lies opportunity". To ensure that local sport remains above the trap caused by conflict of interest issues, the first step must be to start talking about it.
Brian Lewis is the honorary Secretary General of the Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee http/www.ttoc.org. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the TTOC.