Unity and Strength: Keys to Success for the Democratic Labour Party on its 69th Anniversary

I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought. 1 Cor 1:10 (NIV)

On the occasion of the 69th Anniversary of the Democratic Labour Party, I have the honour to extend, on behalf of the Restoration Ministries International Network of Churches, and on my own behalf, my warmest congratulations and best wishes to the Leader of the Opposition Ralph Thorne, President Dr Ronnie Yearwood, General Secretary Steve Blackett, the executive and all the members of this distinguished, outstanding political organisation, the Democratic Labour Party.

I am aware the party is facing some relational challenges in this its 69th year but be assured that with a commitment from each member to close ranks, unite, forgive and put God first, and to put the interest of the party above self, the light will become brighter at the end of the tunnel. A brighter season is ahead for the party.

As you move towards your 70th year, I would suggest a few things you can think about, to help maintain unity, strength, teamwork and comradery as a political entity.

First, clarify and strengthen the party’s vision, philosophy, ideology and principles. It is discovered that when members of a party share a strong commitment to the above, there is greater unity, cohesion and clarity of purpose, and areas of disagreement at every level of the party are readily resolved.

Secondly, it will be important to create a culture of inclusivity and a sense of belonging (family). When members of a party feel a sense of belonging and that they are valued, they are less likely to find themselves divided and non-committed. Members must feel they can express their opinions freely, without fear of reprisal. Freedom of thought and expression is an inalienable right. Every party that has only followers should scare a sane person.

Also, a party must create opportunities for advancement. This helps to create a higher level of commitment. When comrades have an opportunity to advance their careers, they are less likely to be disjointed and disconnected. Rather, they are eager to go beyond the call of duty on every occasion. Members must have opportunities to hold leadership positions, run for office, and be involved in the decision-making processes, just to name a few.

Firm but loving confrontation is necessary in dealing with the spirit of disunity. The culture of disunity may be caused by a number of underlying problems within the party, such as disrespect, favouritism, corruption, rebellion, factionalism or a lack of transparency. Addressing these problems frontally but lovingly can help reduce the spirit of disunity that can spread like a cancer throughout the party if allowed to continue unchecked.