TUF Press Releases

Aug 31 2006 - The United Force (TUF) extends Congratulations to H.E. President Bharrat Jagdeo and the Peoples Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C)

Leader of the United Force, Manzoor Nadir extended his and his party’s congratulations to the winner of the August 28 polls, H.E. President Bharrat Jagdeo and the PPP/C.

His letter to H.E. read as follows:

“On behalf of the members and the executives of the United Force, and on behalf of my family and I, it is my honour and privilege to extend to you and the Peoples Progressive Party Civic our congratulations on your impressive victory at the August 28 polls. The United Force and I respect the will of the people and will respect their wishes. Your victory is a testament and endorsement of your past leadership and vision for our country, by the people.

We extend our best wishes to you and the Peoples Progressive Party Civic for a successful term as you lead the country for the betterment of all.

Congratulations and Best Regards.”

Signed by TUF Leader, Manzoor Nadir.

 

Aug 12 2006 - TUF ATTRACTS LARGE TURNOUT IN MORUKA

The United Force was very, very pleased with the turnout at its meeting in Moruka today, August 12, as TUF team campaigns in the Moruka and Pomeroon regions.

TUF team was led by the Presidential candidate, Manzoor Nadir and included the Deputy Leader, Michael Abraham, Vice Chairman, Errol Van Nooten and supported by TUF candidates from the area.

The Team touted the merits of its 39 points crime reduction plan launched yesterday at Unity House.

The team also introduced its young campaigner Ms. Maloney Albert, while area activists Herman Haley championed the merits of TUF.

Nadir promised to double touchau’s stipend, the provision of agricultural support for the farmers and to make the road from Kumaka to Quebana a pitched road. He also identified crime as the number one issue facing Guyana today and said that crime is a concern for us all.

TUF is a 46 year old party and has been a party with strong indigenous support. TUF campaign moves to Wakapoa, cabakaburi and the Pomeroon river today.

 

July 31 2006 - TUF Emancipation Day Message

The United Force expresses congratulations and best wishes to the Guyanese public on yet another emancipation anniversary. This is according to leader of TUF Manzoor Nadir in his annual emancipation day message. Nadir said that as the world and Guyanese celebrate the day when they were given the freedom that human beings are entitled to, they should strive for continued success in their endeavors.

“The greatest atrocity to mankind was committed against Africans when they were enslaved for some one hundred and seventy two years ago. However, their resilience and determination for freedom became a reality when in 1838 they gained their freedom” the TUF Leader noted.

Nadir pointed out that the celebration of emancipation is a hall mark in the lives of all Africans as they have demonstrated that regardless of the time it takes to achieve one’s desire it can be achieved. “When we look back at what our African brothers and sisters went through in their quest for freedom it should remind us about their patience and faith during their suffering. They lived their lives with the humble belief that in the end they would be free and while thousands died trying to make the dream a reality in the end it was achieved” he said.

Nadir said that the struggles and hard work of our fore parents must not go unnoticed as it would be like recommitting the atrocity that were committed against Africans. The suffering of Africans some one hundred odd years ago should be seen as a reminder for Guyanese to remain committed and dedicated in selecting a government that can emancipate us from our sufferings. “We at TUF understands what the ordinary Guyanese are forced to endure on a daily base and therefore we will strive to ensure that jobs are created, open avenues for investments to be made, security is restored while the misuse and mismanagement of funds is eradicated as we build a balance and conducive environment so that all can live and survive. The time is now and as we reflect on all that our fore parents have done for our freedom we trust that the Guyanese public will understand what TUF is attempting at doing” Nadir noted.

The TUF Presidential candidate pointed out that while emancipation was achieved decades ago many persons are still living in some form of slavery. He pointed out that the greatest slavery that many are encountering is mental slavery noting that politicians are the biggest culprits. “Our fore parents would be sad to note that we are allowing politicians to decisive us using race and fancy promises. Remember they believed in the theory that hard work with commitment was the greatest gift to any one and that is why TUF is a party of commitment as we hold the view that once commitment is not fulfilled then the public should take the necessary measures; however to make promises is like taking our people back into slavery. Our fore parents were promised year after year that they would be free and it was only after two hundred odd years after a long hard fight for their freedom were they taken seriously” he said.

Nadir pledged that TUF intends to bring about emancipation from a number of ills and sufferings and while emancipation is being celebrated for one day he made a passionate appeal for the season to be used as a time for sincere and deep reflection. “While August 1 is emancipation let us use the entire August to observe and celebrate emancipation, with this in mind we can go to the polls with an emancipated mentality voting on issues rather than emotions and once this is achieved we would have elected a government that truly believes in the people of this country” he concluded.

The Party said that The United Force has always strived and called for equality among the races and sufferings to the people of Guyana therefore TUF will continue to emancipate the public on issues as we hold the form belief that to enjoy a truly emancipated country then the TUF should be the party of choice.

 

July 31 2006 - TUF presents Victory List amidst much celebration – Right and Ready for Government

The United Force presented its official list of candidates Wednesday July 26, 2006 to GECOM. The list was presented amidst dancing and prancing by a massive turn out of supporters who pranced through the streets accompanying a number of candidates from the party. Leader of TUF and Presidential candidate, Manzoor Nadir to Chief Elections Officer, Gocool Bodhoo said that his party is very confident of doing well at the upcoming elections. “We are here to present the list of candidates for the party that has been right and ready,” Nadir said.

A number of party candidates presented the regional lists after they were greatly received by party supporters and a number of other persons who had lined the entrance of City Hall. The team had made their way into City Hall accompanied by the party’s battle song and a number of soca music.

Presenting the lists were Region Ten, Chairman of the Party, Ishmael Mohammed, Region Nine Valerie Lowe, Region Eight TUF Office Manager, Jenny Blackman, Region Seven St Kitts based Guyanese, Rawle Nelson, Region Six Khemraj Singh, Region Five Vice Chairman, Errol Van Nooten, Region Four by the youngest candidate in the 2006 elections, Marvin Dublin, Region Three Murtland Williams, Region Two Basil Persaud while Deputy Leader of the party Michael Abraham presented Region’s One list.

The supervision of the presentation of the list was done by Senior Party Executive Ron Persaud who noted that TUF will certainly achieved its primary objective of controlling the reigns of Government as they have been Ready since 1960. Meanwhile daughter of the party leader Maurissia Nadir presented the National Top up List as Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission Dr. Steve Surujbally, local and international observers, members of the public and the media were among those witnessing the very captivating occasion.

Nadir in his speech to GECOM thanked them for the excellent work that they have been able to achieve thus far. He wished them well noting that he sincerely trusts that they would be able to ensure more successful tenures in conducting Guyana’s elections. He reassured GECOM that his party will use their platforms to conduct a clean and fair campaign adding that TUF is unlike other parties as they will not attack any one or party.

Nadir also took time out to speak to the media after he was mobbed and also had the privilege of having the longest interview. He told the media that he was contesting the elections as his party was able to capture the best possible candidates that he is confident of will take Guyana forward with growth and development.

“Why I am contesting the elections? That’s because TUF believes that we have the best possible candidates that is needed if Guyana is going to achieve greatness. We have some of the best candidates around as wed have over 350 candidates with some two thousand odd petitioners” he said. Nadir expressed confidence that with the reception they have been receiving over the years TUF will certainly be the third force in party thus being able to control balance of power. “We have a balance list with persons of varying professions while the races have all been represented and we have ensured that there is gender balance on the list as we have always preached for gender balance” he continued.

Nadir declared that the Sun is ready to take Guyanese forward; the symbol for his party is the Sun which represents the bright light that many persons have been calling for while the theme that they will be using is “Right and Ready.”

He pointed out that with TUF’s track record of all inclusiveness with regards to the races will continue on the platform of a god fearing party that believes strongly in Christian and moral values. “Our youths are falling apart as they are grave concerns because they have been calling for job creation, investment, security and opportunities for all. We are confident that with a TUF Government they will be able to achieve this” the Leader declared.

“We are not like other political parties that plays window dressing as we hold the view that the once you’re a Guyanese then you should be allowed to contribute to the development of Guyana” Nadir said. He added that only TUF has the best broad based candidates noting that the list covers a variety of professionals in and around Guyana. “We have persons from all levels which include doctors, lawyers, politicians, Pubic Servants, educators, private sector employees and even Guyanese living abroad has been invited to return as we take the reigns of government for the next five years”. The party officially launched its election campaign at a political meeting held at Unity House on Wednesday 26, 2006.

 

July 31 2006 - The United Force has the Right candidates who are Ready for Government - Nadir

The United Force Party has said that its 2006 candidate’s slate for the upcoming National and Regional elections defines its campaign theme ‘Right and Ready’. Leader of the party Manzoor Nadir said that TUF has always sought to represent its populace as it attempts to move the country forward with development.

The nomination list was submitted by a number of candidates on behalf of the party to Chief Election Officer, Gocool Boohoo of the Guyana Elections Commission on July 26.

Nadir stated hat the party list is geared towards putting forward a team that truly represents a broad based government as they belief that to achieve the right things you need the right people. He said that “We can boast that we have attracted the best and brightest Guyanese.”
Gender

Regarding the issue of gender balance Nadir said that while each party is expected to have at least thirty percent of women on the list his party has exceeded that amount. “We have way over thirty percent because we believe in equality and that is why our party has been able to attract a number of young, bright women” he said. Some of our female candidates are University of Guyana lecturer Alana Brassington and Business Management graduate of the University of Guyana Jenny Blackamn.

Skills
Boasting about the varying skills that exist within the party, Nadir said that TUF has nominated candidates with expertise, experience and knowledge from the length and breath of Guyana. “This is the best list that we have put forward and I am very proud of it” he said. Additionally, many of the candidates are trained professionals. This list clearly demonstrates that the TUF intends to be inclusive and to involve all sectors of the Guyanese population with a TUF elected Government.

Some of the professions that have been included on the list are; workers, farmers, doctors, lawyers, accountants, business administrators, politicians, religious ministers, Aircraft engineers, transportation sector administrators, Pubic Servants, educators, IT entrepreneur, geologists, journalists and a number of persons from the civil and public sectors of society.

Youth
The issue of Youth is critical and the party believes that young people must be given a big say in what takes place in their lives. Therefore, the party has taken the decision to contest the election with a number of youth representatives on both the national and regional list. The lists clearly demonstrate that TUF has an exciting, energetic, dynamic and committed mix of youthful and experienced candidates. We can also boast about the youngest candidate in the elections in Marvin Dublin while St Kitts based Guyanese journalist Rawle Nelson who is also a youth activist in St Kitts and Nevis is part of the list.

Ethnicity
Arguably, the Party’s leader said that they are very proud with the enormous support that they enjoy from the various national stakeholders. Nadir pointed out that TUF has never been a party that campaigns along racial lines and therefore they are not worried about the ethnicity issue that the other parties’ are plagued with.

The TUF believes that we must campaign along the line of being truly Guyanese because at the end of the day we need Guyanese to make a change.

Assurance
We would like to reassure the public that we are not a party that make promises but rather a party of commitment. Guyana can achieve the right things but to achieve the right things we need the right people and with the right people we will certainly have the right ideas. We are committed towards ensuring a brighter and solid future for all Guyanese.

The Presidential Candidate is Manzoor Nadir and Prime Ministerial Candidate is Mr. Michael Abraham. The election agent is Mr. Errol Van Nooten, Vice Chairman of TUF and Assistant Agent is Miss Jenny Blackman, Office Manager at TUF Headquarters.

The symbol of TUF is the Sun.

 

July 26 2006 - Speech by TUF Leader, Manzoor Nadir, on Nomination Day.

The United Force is very proud to be presenting its official list of candidates this evening as we again contend to lead the Government of Guyana for the next five years. The United Force has been making a meaningful and significant contribution to development since 1960. We are confident that after some forty six years of existence we are on track to achieving our primary goal of taking the reigns of government.

TUF list has over three hundred and fifty candidates and is supported by over two thousand petitioners. There are a number of new parties, but despite the fact that they are two older parties other than the TUF it’s evident that we have the best list of candidates. Our list encompasses varying levels of professions, skills and geographic dispersion, as we have sought to present a team that will truly represent all Guyanese. We are especially proud of the many young and the women candidates who have joined the list. Our list contains persons as young as eighteen and as experienced at a seventy year old can be. We have several university students, young skilled professionals and competent persons.

A number of political parties have begun boasting about who and who they have been able to attract from each others political party. What we are happy about is that as TUF swings into the blue zone from today, we will compete head to head with any and every party as we will do our fighting on the platform.

I would therefore like to reiterate our commitment to a very peaceful and character- assassination-free campaign. We are a party that believes in Divine principles therefore; we will confront issues only as this should be the only deciding factor in determining who runs the country. This is my fourth walk, as Leader of the United Force, to the elections - I have never been as confident as I am now because of the work that we have been able to complete and the support that we have garnered.

As leader of TUF, we are cognizant that our people yearn to have a better life right here. TUF can provide that. We are the only party that has ever laid out a programme based on a free enterprise economy, democracy and divine values. TUF has been the only party not to have to change its ideology.

We say that Guyana can do the right things, but to do the right things you have to have the right ideas, and to get the right ideas you have to have the right people.

Thank You.

Manzoor Nadir
Leader TUF

 

July 23 2006 - Remarks at Fundraiser, Club Tobago, Queens, NY NY.

REMARKS MADE BY THE HON. MANZOOR NADIR, LEADER OF THE UNITED FORCE AND MINISTER OF TOURISM INDUSTRY AD COMMERCE AT A NEW YORK FUND RAISER, HELD ON JULY 23, 2006 AT CLUB TOBAGO, QUEENS.

Good Evening Ladies and Gentlemen,

First let me thank all of you for coming to this simple event today and in particular to also express, on behalf of the Members, Executive and myself, the T.U.F’s appreciation and grateful thanks to T.U.F NY’s Executive, also our special thanks to Ramesh, the management and staff of Club Tobago and to Richie, Rick and the management and staff of Kaieteur Restaurant and Bar.

Most of you here today go back a very long time with us. We have been friends, family and associates and most of you have been generous with your support in our efforts at politics during the past 15 years - 15 years ago we were all very different, the one person to stay the same is the King of Queens, Richie.

While, in the past, we have been unable, as a party, to win significant support, we have, however, gained tremendous recognition and have been able to make a small contribution to national development through the Ministry of Tourism Industry and Commerce.

The United Force is once again contesting elections. These have been set for August 28, 2006, just under six weeks from today. I am also again, asking for your financial, moral and physical support as we plan, prepare and participate in these elections - With your support in the past I have served as a Member of Parliament for the past 3 terms - almost 14 years.

Why are we going again and what are are our chances?

A party is formed to seek the highest political office so as to implement beliefs it holds for the betterment of the lives of the people. The United Force was formed 46 years ago based on the principles of a Free Enterprise economy, democracy and a strong belief in God. What we establish then is pertinent today, was pertinent then and will always be the basis of national development and efficient ordering of society. These are the reasons for the establishment of T.U.F. and why we subscribe to the party. So we are again contesting because we are committed to building a strong and great Guyana based on the above principles.

In 2006, as it was 46 years ago T.U.F. looks set to be a significant player at these elections. We have been able to pull back lost support and to expand our membership and support in new areas. Since January, we have set our plans and have been able to work it. As we see it, there could be between 6-11 seats up for grabs and T.U.F. intends to be the player holding the majority of these seats.

What are the issues for Guyana today?

Security and safety. Guyana has to deal firmly, effectively and decisively with this issue. What we propose is that we have a new National investigative agency because the capacity for crime solving has to be improved. It also has to be de-linked from the traditional police force. In society, crime must be punished, but to punish you first have to find the criminals and effectively prosecute them.

Accelerated Economic Development is another promise we make. While we recognize that there have been some advances, our country needs to move its economic development to a higher plateau. Clearing red tape and putting in place an even more attractive investment package is a must.

For accelerated economic development we need to tap into the resource pool of the Guyanese Diaspora. I firmly believe that the potential for the development of our country is not only our national resources, but the skills, wealth, and experiences of our people who reside outside of Guyana.

I propose the Ministry of the Diaspora. We know how to contact you in time of need. You have been there, sending money and material things to family and friends - over US dollar 120M. You respond to politicians for campaigns, the diaspora offers for help are many times not followed-up on. The contacts and advances of the diaspora in almost every field of endeavor are unimaginable.

Finally T.U.F sees that the issue of unity and seeking ourselves as Guyanese must be dealt with head on. I noticed this morning in our Guyanese media, that Mr. Robert Corbin, opposition leader, has announced that the PNCR will contest the elections because of wider national considerations. This is a most profound statement noting that that party has said before that there will be no elections unless demands of the PNCR were met. It is positions like these that will cause our people to respect each other and have persons judged on merit and character rather than other criteria.

I pledge too you our resolve to work assiduously for Guyana and to keep an open door policy for you.

Playing on the screens are shots of our campaign so far. I again express my thanks to all of you for your assistance and support.

 

July 18 2006 - Minister Nadir clears air on Ministerial Position.

	TUF Leader briefs the team in Bartica on Saturday July 15
	TUF Leader Manzoor Nadir and Vice Chairman, Errol Van Nooten, getting signatures, in Wineperu, for the Region 7 List
	... in Wakapoa ...
	... and in Monkey Mountain

Minister Nadir appearing on a one hour live television programme in Bartica, indicated that while serving in the PPP/C administration he still remains a member of TUF and not the PPP/C.

A caller to the programme enquired if he had ever supported any bill, legislation or issue proposed by the opposition and Minister Nadir responded by indicating that there were numerous instances where he supported motions proposed by the opposition. “I do not support issues because of personality, I support issues that seek to better the lives of the citizens of Guyana” noting that his job in Parliament is to be the voice of those who would have elected him.

When quizzed about the successes of the present government and more in particularly his ministry, Minister Nadir said that he is satisfied with his inputs in the efforts of Government for the past five years. He, however, noted that his achievements within the ministry was not single-hand achieved, but collectively as a team by the government.

When accused by some that his actions seemed as one of betrayal and that the party executives may not have supported his decision he dismissed this view noting that after he had received the invitation he sought the advice of his executives after which a number of members were consulted. They unanimously voted for him to accept the position which he did. He, however, pointed that a certain television commentator was creating the impression that he had not received full support and backing by TUF. He stressed that whatever the populace decides, he will follow as his responsibility is to the people and not to himself. A number of other callers to the programme congratulated the Minister on performance as Minister of Tourism reassuring him that his supporters’ stands committed behind him.

The interview was party of TUF’s campaign to Region’s Seven, Eight and Ten, that saw TUF teams going to Wineperu, St. Mary’s, Riversview, Agatash, Bartica and environs, Paramakatoi, Monkey Mountain, Kato, Kurukubaru and Mahdia during the last weekend.

Among those accompanying the leader were senior officials; Errol Van Nooten, Ron Persaud and Valerie Lowe. The Minister was accompanied by a seventeen member delegation to region seven. He is expected to continue thse campaign visits to a number of other communities as part of TUF party’s efforts at the upcoming general elections. The team had to endure an eight miles journey through the jungle as their vehicle lost a wheel in the rough road terrain.

TUF ready with its candidates and petitions

The United Force says that it is ready to present its list of candidates and the petitions as soon as nomination day is announced. Teams have over the past two weeks been working the fields and preparing for the announcement of the elections date by the President.

 

June 27 2006 - Region 9 Outreach

On June 2, a fifteen-member strong TUF (The United Force) team which included Leader, Manzoor Nadir, Deputy Leader, Michael Abraham, Party Chairman, Ismail Muhammed, and executive member, Valerie Lowe left Georgetown for Lethem traveling through the trail. They left at 1:00 a.m. and arrived in Lethem at 3:30 p.m., just in time for a 5:00 p.m. meeting in St. Ignatius organized by well known TUF Region 9 activist and former Regional Chairman, Maucir Baretto.

The team operated like a well-oiled machine and within an hour and a half the meeting house had electricity from a mobile generator, banners were hung, laptop computers were set up and the projector and screen out and ready to show The United Force’s recent outreaches in various parts of the country. TUF Girls and Guys, resplendent in their jerseys and T-Shirts, distributed literature to everyone, made sure that they were comfortable and generally saw that everything went smoothly. The meeting was well attended and the people of St. Ignatius made the visiting team feel very welcome.

The next day, Saturday 3, the team left early for the village of Yupukari. They were accompanied by three Region 9 activists on motor cycles. By 11:00 a.m. TUF Team went through their set up routine and in just a few minutes the meeting house was filled with well-dressed, friendly people of the village. The interaction was great with villagers coming forward to the microphone and speaking of their problems or requesting assistance for special projects. Those who had plans to come to Georgetown promised to visit Unity House.

By 2:00 p.m. the same day another very rewarding meeting was held in Kwatata where TUF team was also well received by villagers.

Because of the lack of time only fleeting visits were paid to Fly Hill and Caicumbay but the leader promised that The United Force Team will be back soon. After traveling as fast as the road would allow and aided by some heartfelt prayers of the Deputy leader’s, they arrived at Nappi for a 6:30 p.m. meeting.

The villagers of Nappi, the deputy leader’s hometown, were out in full force. Within minutes the meeting was in progress with great interaction from the villagers. A beautiful banquet was prepared for the hungry and appreciative visiting team A beautiful banquet was prepared and the only regret was that it was not treated to the honor it deserved. Meals were grabbed hastily during speaking breaks. Then it was “nyam guh way”.

Then it started to get tough, so the TUF got going! Maybe things were going too well for the team so some trials and tribulations had to be added to spice things up! While returning to Lethem one of the vehicles got into trouble. At one point a front wheel was literally hanging over a large crater, just balancing there. Everyone had to vacate the vehicle very gently for fear of any movement whatsoever causing the vehicle to tumble into the crater.

At 10:00 p.m. that night TUF men got down to business and “every man jack” started fetching boulders to fill some smaller crevices while the other vehicle tried to pull the stuck one from its precarious position. There were no complaints. The men worked ceaselessly to solve the problem while the women paid them their due respect by waiting patiently on them and offering up a few prayers by way of assistance. The team arrived at Lethem at 12 midnight, tired and hungry. The generous Macedos had just turned in from their birthday celebration but when TUF Team was bare-faced enough to call on them they kindly offered them duck curry and dhal puri to assuage their hunger.

On Sunday morning bright and early, after a “pow pow” with Region 9 TUF activists from as far as Sawariwau and Aishalton, the visiting team left for Annai where they visited with Colin Edwards thence to a meeting in the village. This meeting was also well attended and a candidate was selected to represent the Region for the 2006 elections.

TUF Team was homeward bound by 3:00 p.m. The rain made the trail a bit difficult at times but fairly manageable and a stop was made at Kurupukari to visit with a staunch TUF supporter, Dorothy Pedro, who is also a candidate for Region 10.

The vehicles barely made it to Linden where they ran out of fuel. However, they were very fortunate to be assisted by a helpful gas station owner at that time of the night and the stragglers were on their way again. They arrived in Georgetown at around 4:00 am on Monday morning.

Leader, Manzoor Nadir deemed the Region 9 outreach as successful. The interaction and goodwill were very evident and TUF is looking forward to their next visit to Region 9.

Members of the GUYS who went on the trip must be complimented for their excellent example of what today’s youth is capable of – courtesy, friendliness, punctuality, initiative, tidiness, and reliability. They were the set-up team and they did an excellent job. In fact, everyone did a great job. Congratulations to the TUF Team and a great “thank you” to the people of Region 9!

 

June 07 2006 - Check The List - Micobie Outreach

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On Independence Day, May 26, 2006, a TUF contingent visited the Amerindian Village of Micobie located approximately ten miles from Madhia in Region 8. They met with village Captain Majuma Edwards, who is serving her second term as Village Captain, and the Vice Captain Williams.

A CHECK THE LIST activity was carried out and villagers checked their names on the 2006 voters list on laptop computers that were set up especially for that purpose. Some of their relatives lived and worked as far away as Region 1 but they were very excited that they could have checked and found their names also.

Villagers were also treated to a slide show of all TUF outreaches and Check the List activities.

Mr. Errol Van Nooten, party vice chairman, then spoke to them about The United Force and their plans for Amerindians and for all Guyanese.

Villagers were very receptive to the visiting TUF Team who was accompanied by Campbelltown Captain, Kenneth William, and Councillor, Manuel Francis.

The team experienced some thrills when one of the vehicles got stuck between Tumatumari and Micobie on a terrible stretch of road between two very high hills.

 

May 24 2006 - PRESS RELEASE - TUF Check The List Campaign Continues; List is Very Good

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The United Force continued its check the list campaign last weekend (May 20) with outreaches into Region Ten (Mabura) and Region Eight (Madhia, Campbelltown and Princeville).

Speaking to Channel Six (News Today) at Mango Landing, TUF Deputy Leader, Mr. Michael Abraham said that the party’s exercise which has been carried out over the past two weeks has show that the list is very clean.

TUF, he said, had also done CHECK THE LIST EXERCISES in New Amsterdam, Georgetown, La Grange, Bartica and activists have been in other regions of the country

Abraham said that there were very small problems with the List, such as persons who were dead and on the list – a small percentage of names were in this category. One example of multiple registration was found – a person registered in both her married and maiden names, and a few instances of persons being put in the wrong division to vote. He noted that these could be remedied.

TUF continues its programme this weekend with outreaches to Tumatumari, Pomeroon and the Essequibo Coast

 

May 24 2006 - Independence Day Message - Happy Fortieth Birthday Guyana, from the TUF

The United Force (TUF) takes this opportunity to wish Guyana a Happy Fortieth Birthday. We the executive and members of TUF are ever so cognizant of the ongoing struggles of our citizens to achieve peace, security and economic prosperity.

Forty years have elapsed since we have unyoked ourselves from colonialism in the hope of creating a just and equitable society. As citizens, we must use this opportunity to reflect on our past and try to identify our short comings as individuals and as a nation. We must work to build our national pride and create regional and international respect.

We must also take an introspective view of ourselves and ask whether as citizens, we have done all we can do to make Guyana a better country. For those of us who are of the appropriate age, we must ask ourselves whether our lives are better today than forty years ago. Are our children safer today than forty years ago? Are we safer in our homes or businesses today than we were forty years ago? Is our education system better today than it was forty years ago? TUF knows what your answer is. Our youths are turning to drugs and prostitution at an alarming rate. The level of substance and other forms of dependencies baffles the mind. Due to the crime rate, we are no longer free to live the life we choose. Instead we must live behind bars in our homes, with armed security patrolling our communities. This is not the independence we expected after forty years. We must reverse this deterioration of our quality of life and make the citizens truly independent and free in their pursuit of happiness. TUF will never surrender in its struggle to rid our country of the scourge of crime and improve the quality of life of our citizens, so please join us in the struggle.

Happy Fortieth Birthday Guyana and may your forty-first birthday meet our people enjoying the prosperity, security and happiness they so overwhelmingly deserve.

Manzoor Nadir
Leader TUF

 

May 22 2006 - Captain Anselmo Visit

	Michael Abraham and Captain Anselmo

On Monday May 22, Captain Anselmo of Kaikan paid a visit to Unity House. He was received by the Deputy Leader, Mr. Michael Abraham who presented him with a football, a volleyball and some soft balls along with a coloured copy of the Stephen Campbell's Tribute that was published in the newspapers on his death anniversary.

The Captain extended an invitation to TUF executives for a visit to his village.

 

May 16 2006 - PRESS RELEASE -- Check The List

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On Saturday May 13, 2006, a 20-member strong TUF contingent, including leader Manzoor Nadir, traveled to Bartica to continue their “CHECK THE LIST” activity that began on Sunday May 7, 2006 at La Penitence Market and continued daily since around various parts of the city.

After setting up tables, laptops, amplifiers and mikes, Barticians around the busy market area were invited to come across and check to see if their names were on the Preliminary List of Electors and the Master List.

The response was very encouraging as not only Barticians stopped by to check the list but shoppers from the outlying areas and visitors stopped too. TUF members walked around to the many businesses handing out flyers and generally encouraged everyone to make sure that their names were on the list.

Flyers were also distributed reminding voters that the deadline for registering, changing addresses and names is May 22, 2006.

After a hardworking day TUF Team, although very tired, left Bartica with bright smiles from the kind words of encouragement and waves of the friendly Barticians. The next CHECK THE LIST activity is scheduled to be in Madhia on May 20 and 21.

 

May 7 2006 - PRESS RELEASE - Check The List

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The United Force Party carried out a “CHECK THE LIST” exercise this morning at La Penitence Market between the hours of 7:00 am and 11:30 am.

Aided by laptop computers and a hard copy of the 2006 Voters List for the area, TUF members, including the leader, Manzoor Nadir, were able to assist the constant stream of persons that stopped by to check, not only their names, but their entire family’s names.

Judging from the amount of person who stopped by to “CHECK THE LIST” the exercise was indeed a great success and party members were happy to dispense such a valuable community service at this time.

The exercise is continuing at Unity House so that persons who are at cricket can drop by anytime during the rest of the day to check their names.

Next week we will be in South Georgetown to continue this activity. Persons can also call in to Unity House on telephone number 226-2596 any day during the week to check if their names are on the list too.

Over 300 persons from random areas checked their names on the 2006 Voters List and were pleased to find that their names were on the list.

 

May 5 2006 - HAPPY ARRIVAL DAY TO ALL GUYANESE!

The United Force takes this opportunity to congratulate all fellow Guyanese on this day that marks the arrival to the shores of this great land, our forefathers, who have over the centuries left solid, indelible imprints of achievement IN infrastructure AND agriculture ,WITH unique and distinct contributions of cuisine, INCLUDING monumental cultural development to make up what is uniquely, a Guyanese tapestry.

TUF recognizes that this was no easy task as history is replete with stories of the struggle and pain that was the common lot of us all as we strove to develop this great nation of six peoples.

May all Guyanese continue to achieve and build on the foundation left by the previous generation and may we work assiduously at attaining that peace unity AND PROSPERITY we all truly deserve.

 

Apr 29 2006 - T.U.F SAYS GECOM MOVING TO FRUSTRATE SMALLER PARTIES

The United Force has called Elections Commission Chairman complaining about the non-provision of a hard copy of the Preliminary List of Electors (PLE) to The United Force.

Political Parties, especially Parliamentary Political Parties have always been provided with this form of the PLE, so too has TUF, since it contested Elections over four (4) decades ago.

TUF also strongly condemns the Chief Elections Officer, who has been suffering from memory lapses with respect to this issue. When asked by the Chairman of the Elections Commission yesterday to verify the claim by TUF, Mr. Boodhoo told the Chairman he could not remember.

After several attempts by TUF to reach the Commissioner TUF was finally provided with an electronic copy of the PLE yesterday Friday April 28, 2006 afternoon. Both the Chairman and the CEO have said they are looking at costs. A consideration which the Government of Guyana has said that should not be an issue.

Only recently Government spent over $7 Million dollars to acquire twenty (20) computers for GECOM. Providing each party with a hard copy of the PLE would cost under $6 Million.

TUF is concerned that GECOM’s secretariat and Commissioner are treating these up coming Elections as a PNC/R and PPP/C matter alone. Only these two (2) parties have scrutineers who are paid by GECOM and the taking away of equal treatment from all parties is unfair.

TUF calls on all the Commissioners to ensure that each contesting party be treated equally and fairly.

TUF also records its concern with respect to the non-chalant manner that GECOM’s secretariat treats with it.

 

Mar 29 2006 - TUF Support for Continous Registration Since 2002

The United Force is expressing its disappointment in the tardiness of the Elections Commission in dealing with the preparations for the upcoming elections.

As early as September 10 2002, the United Force had sent its response to proposals from the Elections Commission for continuous registration.

There is no reason why we should even be discussing this matter at this stage of preparations for elections.

See a copy of the letter which we sent to the Chairman of the Commission in 2002.

 

Mar 22 2006 - Statement of The United Force on the State of Preparedness for the 2006 Elections and Other Matters of Elections.

The United Force has called this press conference to let you know about our positions on the state of preparedness for the 2006 General and Regional Elections to be held before August 4 2006. [ more ]

 

Feb 07 2006 - TUF Outreach

The Executive of The United Force has ended the first of its 2006 outreach exercises with visits throughout the length and breadth of our country. [ download ]

Scenes from the outreach exercise:

 

Jan 28 2006 - TUF CAMPAIGN GETS MOBILE

The United Force has recently moved to ensure that its 2006 campaign gets active by supplying Motorcycles and bicycles to its activists in the hinterland.

Recently, Unity House sent to Region Three 150cc motorcycles and two mountain bikes to booster the two 100cc bikes already there. These will be used by the activists to serve the South Pakaraimas and the South and Central Rupununi.

Bicycles have been sent to activists in Region Eight - Pakaraima, Kato, Kurukubaru and Monkey Mountain.

Three boat engines have been procured by the TUF NY group and will shortly be deployed to Region 1 and the Upper Mazaruni.

 

Jan 19 2006 - TUF MEETING WITH THE GUYANA ELECTIONS COMMISSION

A four-member team of The United Force comprising Leader Mr. Manzoor Nadir, Deputy Leader Mr. Micheal Abraham, Chairman Mr. Ishmail Muhammed and Treasurer Mr. Dennis Lee, met with the Chairman and the Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Election Commission to deal with a number of issues which have developed as a result of the current continuous registration process.

Among the matters raised were: [ download ]

 

Aug 22 2005 - NADIR RE-ELECTED UNOPPOSED TUF LEADER

The United Force held its much awaited Party Conference on August 21 where Party Leader and Minister of Tourism Industry and Commerce was re-elected unopposed as party leader.

In another significant result from the conference, the party membership overwhelmingly endorsed the position of the Leader to serve in the PPPC government as Minister of Tourism Industry and Commerce. A resolution to this effect was introduced by the Party Executive and after a heated debated with Party Member and popular TV personality Anthony Vieira, who opposed the motion the motion was passed by a vote of 103 for and 6 against.

The party’s membership also unanimously endorsed a recommendation that TUF contest the upcoming 2006 elections independent of any other party.

Officers Elected at the 2005 Party Conference on August 21:

Leader – Hon. Manzoor Nadir M.P.
Deputy Leader – Michael Anthony Abraham
Chairman – Ismail Muhammed
Vice Chairman – Mr. Errol Van Nooten

In addition Section 9 (b) (v) calls for not more than eight members being elected to the General Conference of which notice in writing must be received.

The following persons were elected as the representatives for the General Council:

1. Ms. Angela Singh – Region Two
2. Mr. Maucir Baretto – Region Nine
3. Mr. Jerome Jarvis – Region One
4. Mr. Khemraj Singh – Region Six
5. Ms. Claire Haynes – Region Four
6. Mr. Alfred Stanislaus – Region Eight
7. Mr. Murtland Williams - Georgetown
8. Ms. Lilian Allen – Region Ten

The following are the representatives to the General Council:

Ms. Monica Goorahoo - WAF
Mr. Michael Jandoo - GUYS