The turn of the year always stirs up questions, insecurities and speculation; January brings few certainties. Bad weather and travel disruption are a given, so there are two already. Another, which can be relied on, is the announcement of the Pantone colour for 2024, Peach Fuzz, which they describe as “a velvety, gentle, peach tone, whose all embracing spirit enriches mind, body and soul”.
For the rest of us, 2024 will be more notable as a record year for national elections; over 70 countries go to the polls. There is no doubt that the global political landscape will change quite significantly.
Some of these changes will affect us; those in the UK and the US quite obviously. Others no longer, like the European parliamentary elections; for yes, dear reader, contrary to popular belief, we did have a vote once upon a time. Many, like those in India, Russia and Iran, will probably just see business as usual. And some like Taiwan (taking place tomorrow, January 13) and Ukraine, may have far reaching geopolitical effects.
In America, the date of the election is set in law. It is always held on the Tuesday after the first Monday in November. General election dates in the UK are chosen by the prime minister, but must be held within five years; this means that the next one has to happen before 28 January 2025. Indeed, the prime minister has vaguely indicated that he is looking towards the second half of this year, which still leaves both options on the table. Historically, the preferred months are either May or October.
Those who predict a May date, point to a possible feel good factor created by the spring budget on March 6. Others say that May 2 is already allocated for the local elections and choosing councilors, mayors and PCCs, as well as MPs, would be too much.
Labour’s lead in the polls has slipped recently, but is still in double digits and a landslide is widely viewed as not being out of the question. By choosing an October date, the government may buy itself time to turn public opinion more in their favour; after all turkeys don’t vote for an early Christmas. But this is complicated by the fact that the prime minister needs to make a formal request to the king to dissolve parliament. It is thought that King Charles is planning trips to Australia, New Zealand and possibly India, this October and November.
We have, of course, had our own election of sorts recently in Rye. The existing mayoral appointment is up in May. As his two year term comes to an end, Andi Rivett will hand over to Andy Stuart, following a vote by council members.
But there will be many decisions to be taken, that we will have a say in, for vote we must. It is not mandated, like it has been in Belgium since 1892 and whose citizens go to the polls on June 9, but a privilege of living in a democracy and part of the social contract.
No party will ever suit you completely, just pick the least bad option; whether you’re full on crimsons or just exasperated pinks, dyed in the wool blues or hold your nose one nationists, optimistic oranges or hopeful greens. As a friend of mine says: “You’re not choosing a husband or wife, you’re just getting on a bus that’s going in the right direction.”
Personally, after I’ve done my civic duty, I’m choosing Peach Fuzz. I shall pull on my velvety hat and gloves and hope to keep “my mind, body and soul enriched”, regardless of the global chaos that may ensue.
But however you chose to vote, remember the words of Mahatma Gandhi: “If there’s an idiot in power, it is because those who elected them are well represented.”
Image Credits: Natasha Robinson / Simon Dawson / No 10 Downing Street / Flickr / Wikimedia Commons CC BY 2.0- Rwendland Wikimedia .