Migrant votes matters, as UK election date announced

Following the sudden announcement of the general election date, the migrant community in the United Kingdom are told to make good use of their votes to be part of those determining the future politics in the country. The general election date which has been a bone of contention over the past few months has been finally revealed by Prime Minister Gordon Brown.

Prior to revealing the date, the British Premiere equally gave a sombre speech based on immigration and outlined not only the history of migrants in the UK but also their positive contribution in the socio-economy development of the country over the years. Equally, all the three main political parties acknowledged the relevance of the 'migrant vote' who are qualified to cast their votes in the forthcoming crucial election. Therefore pundits are calling on migrants including those originally from West Africa qualified to vote to use the opportunity to do so in order to have their voice heard.

Recently a government official during a state ceremony contacted this correspondent requesting to meet Gambians in his area to familiarise himself with them thus indicating the significance of their presence.

However in the presence of his cabinet ministers, the leader of the labour party announced that the election will be on May 6 prompting campaign to begin henceforth. In addition, he appealed for a 'clear and straightforward mandate from the British people' to secure a historic fourth Labour term in office. Speaking from Downing Street, Brown revealed the 'secret' and added that 'the Queen has kindly agreed to the dissolution of Parliament and a General Election will take place on May 6.'

Officials from other political parties were already on national televisions explaining to voters what to expect if they are voted in office. Even though the debate was tense, it was very fruitful and friendly as opponents were seen joking and laughing.

The leader of the conservatives, David Cameron quickly used the opportunity to call on the electorates and said: 'This country deserves a lot better than five more years of Gordon Brown and that is what we must offer. So let’s get out there on the path to prosperity and progress.'

The Tory leader also added: 'Let's fight for what we believe in. Let's take the case to the country, to the people of this country, about hope, optimism and change. Let's win this election for the good of the country that we love.'

As observers and political commentators continues their debate, the leader of the Liberal Democrats, Nick Clegg was already campaigning in London. He said: 'This is a huge, huge election. It is certainly the beginning of the end for Brown, that's for sure. Referring to Brown, he added: 'He is directly responsible for so many things that have gone wrong in the last 13 years.

Meanwhile, the YouGov's Poll suggested that that the ruling Labour has bounce back and the polls were now Three Cross-examined In Treason Trial similar to as they stood at the beginning of the year with the Tories only 10 points in front. Other polls revealed a single digit lead in favour of the Tories thus confirming the expectation of a hung Parliament in Britain.

The importance of the votes of African migrants is not only an issue of importance in the UK but also around Europe including France, Germany and Belgium. This correspondent recently visited Belgium, a country with French-speaking Wallonia to the south, and Flanders to the north but still despite the voice of those on the right, left or centre, the relevance of the African migrant votes cannot be ignored.

Meanwhile political parties here are stretching their muscles canvassing for votes and speaking on various issues ranging from the Economy, the National Health Services, Education, Social Services and Immigration. Interestingly, respected political commentators are saying that no-one can predict the results of this year’s election considering the number of undecided voters who are still reluctant to vote for any major political party.