NACTA Poll: PNM takes early lead in Locals

But according to the poll, the PNM has still managed to take an early lead over the opposition UNC and other parties for control over the 14 local governments in the run up to the November 28 elections.

The pollsters said although a large majority of voters are not pleased with PNM governance, they do not view the opposition UNC, as currently constituted, as a viable alternative at this time. “Grass roots supporters and activists of the UNC express disapproval of some of the prospective (projected) candidates in the local government elections.

This, combined with perceived party infighting, will further erode the UNC’s prospects in the locals,” NACTA said.

The findings of the poll show the PNM not under threat to lose any of the eight local bodies it now controls and is on course to make gains. Of the 135 seats up for grabs, the ruling party currently controls 84 seats and it could lose a few seats to the UNC but pick up as many as five based on the latest polling data.

And at least one borough could change party control, NACTA said.

No other party is projected to win any seat or local body but support could change for the two dominant parties depending on candidate selection and the level of their acceptance by activists and voters.

The polls findings also reveal disenchantment with both the PNM and UNC with many respondents clamouring for a strong third political force.

However, given the current choices, voters prefer the PNM over the UNC by a huge margin.

According to the findings of the survey, the PNM leads the UNC 44 percent to 37 percent with the mini-parties combined less than three percent. The poll has an error of 4 percent meaning support could vary in either direction.

The NACTA poll, which is conducted by Dr Vishnu Bisram, said a large number of voters indicate they will not vote, and these non-voters are not included in the polling preference.

With five weeks campaign now starting, prospective outcome could change by election day, NACTA said.