Frequently asked questions about 'Street Talk'

What is 'Street Talk'?

A: 'Street Talk' is a ground exercise aimed at providing the leadership of the party with the forum to interact with the public on matters of national importance.

Why 'Street Talk'?

A: Supporters at National Council and the public in general have voiced concern over the lack of C.O.P visibility and public presence. Since media coverage for C.O.P events is not always guaranteed or accurate, and paid media is very costly, 'Street Talk' which costs the party nothing, and allows for a measure of regional visibility with potential media coverage as well, was conceived. It started as a 'pilot' project and due to its overwhelming success, will now be upgraded and become a mainstream and regular C.O.P activity.

How many people have been interacted with so far?

A: As of the end of 2008, over 100 C.O.P activists and over 8000 people have participated in the 'Street Talk'. More C.O.P activists are encouraged to join the walks.

What is done at a 'Street Talk' session?

A: C.O.P officials and activists hand out flyers and stop and talk to people on a range of issues. If the media is present, the most senior party official would respond to questions posed by them. Walks on major streets, promenades, and market areas are preferred. Where possible, it is best to avoid malls and inside business places, unless prior permission is sought.

How is a 'Street Talk' organised?

A: The Secretariat or duly assigned would contact regional representatives, constituency executives, and former candidates, and agree on a date, venue, and format. Guidelines have been formulated for choice of venue and other logistics.

When is 'Street Talk' preferred?

A: Saturday's at 9:30 am to 11:30 am. Some high-traffic areas can be done on Fridays after work (5-7pm).

How are venues chosen?

A: In 2007, a list of high visibility venues were selected for election '07, and campaigns conducted in these areas. The same venues have again been chosen with some additions. Venues are chosen because of their High-Traffic and visibility. Areas with a nearby market are preferred unless the area itself is high traffic.

Who is invited?

A: Everyone is invited to a 'Street Talk'. Members of the leadership and constituency teams are emailed and/or called or text messaged to provide a date and mobilise. The media is also invited by the Secretariat. All walkers are asked to wear COP shirts/jerseys.

Is 'Street Talk' a replacement for House to House campaigning?

A.: No. House to House campaigning is a separate ground exercise and should be done specifically by Constituency Teams. Guidelines for Canvassing also exist and training done accordingly.

What is the subject of the 'flyers' handed out?

A: Flyers are donated to the party by local printers, and include, but are not limited to, issues regarding poor economic management (squandermania), and what the C.O.P proposes as alternative spending. A basic concept has been to state the problem, and to provide alternative solutions. The flyers are not always the same, and reflect the latest national issues. At least 1000 flyers are handed out at each walk.

What has been the public response thus far?

A: Having completed 8 'Street Talk's in 2008, which began in late October, the public has not only welcomed the C.O.P's initiative, but provides the input from a wide and diverse body of people from which the C.O.P can be guided in its public positions and policies. Based on the responses of the over 8000 people interacted with so far, 'Street Talk' will continue in 2009.

What are some of the challenges of 'Street Talk'?

A: More members and supporters are encouraged to walk. While is it recognised that Saturday morning may be difficult, and subject to traffic and weather variations, 'Street Talk' is very important as a specific ground tactic, and every effort should be made to provide just 2 hours with the C.O.P per week. The alternative is another 5 years or a lifetime of poor governance.

Another challenge is the lack of high-visibility clothing. Due to the variance of C.O.P colours, even a large clustered group of C.O.P activists are not 'visible' enough to the public, and supporters seem to be lost in the crowd. A possible solution is a specific colour assigned to high-visibility walkabouts.

'Street Talk' Photos