THERE’S nothing quite as Machiavellian as politics. Opposition councillors predictably demanded the resignation of Cllr Stephen MacLoughlin. Equally predictably, Cllr MacLoughlin bullishly declared that he had no intention of resigning.
This genre of political theatre comes from an old script, of course. The opposition would be holding its breath, praying that MacLoughlin would react defiantly, true to political pantomime.
The last thing in the world opposition councillors really want is for the leader to stand down. They want him there as a mortally wounded fall guy, a target for ridicule in the run-up to the next elections. And if he should decide to stand for re-election, then – surprise, surprise – photocopies of the Daily Echo front page of October 23 will drop through the letterbox of every home in his ward just a few days from polling.
If the choreography is faithful to tradition, Cllr MacLoughlin will soldier on for a few months, then announce that, due to “personal circumstances”, totally unconnected with the laptop revelations, he will not be seeking re-election, thus sparing himself any further humiliation and his party from acute embarrassment at the election-night count. Michael Litchfield, Norton Road, Bournemouth
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel