Alliance and TG denounce ‘eletoral vandalism’

Two of the political parties contesting the imminent general election have complained after their electoral materials were subjected to vandalism.

The GSLP/Liberal Alliance claimed copies of their manifesto were removed from letterbox areas and binned.

Together Gibraltar also complained on social media that two of their posters had been defaced or torn down, and that the matter had been reported to police.

Party Leader Marlene Hassan Nahon said on Twitter: “2 of our billboard posters defaced. Was met with sharp defence and accusations towards us, which is ironic considering Chief Minister himself went through similar situation in 2011 campaign and called for a similar approach.”

“Good will does a long way. That’s all we’re asking for.”

In a statement, the Alliance said it was confident that those responsible for the “sabotage” of its manifestos would be caught with the use of CCTV and “other new technology”.

“We are reporting the matter to the Returning Officer and to the Royal Gibraltar Police,” it added.

“This constitutes a serious interference with the democratic process. It also explains the telephone calls we have received from residents of a given area asking for a copy of our manifesto when we had already delivered to that area.”

GSLP/Liberal Leader Fabian Picardo, said: “Respecting electoral material of all parties is important. We have seen areas with the manifestos of other parties also strewn around.”

“All of us put a lot of effort into preparing manifestos. It is a shame – apart from being an offence – that some think that depriving other access to our material is the right way to behave.”

“We want the public to see the manifestos of others and compare them to others so that each citizen can make up their minds for themselves who to vote for. We believe when they do that comparative exercise, they will make the choice to vote for the GSLP Liberals.”

“We will therefore take this up with the pertinent authorities and will seek access to CCTV where available to ensure those flouting the rules are appropriately dealt with.”