The Congress of the People (Cope) has put the “destructive infighting” that characterised its 2014 national election campaign behind it‚ and declared itself “ready” to contest the upcoming local government election polls.The party’s candidates list is still being finalised‚ and its election manifesto will be launched next month‚ he said.“We are quite satisfied with our preparation and readiness for the elections‚” said Bloem.“We are certainly better prepared than we were for the 2014 national elections. The destructive infighting at that time made it impossible for us to focus on the elections as a united and cohesive force.”That campaign was rocked by an ongoing leadership dispute between party founders Mosiuoa Lekota and Mbhazima Shilowa‚ and Cope was left with only three seats in the National Assembly‚ down from the 30 it garnered five years earlier.Bloem said: “The right to vote is singular and priceless right. Everyone who is eligible to vote should exercise this right.“Young people have a duty to themselves‚ their future and their country to defend and protect this freedom which was paid for in sweat and blood.“As the opportunity to elect trusted‚ capable and responsive local councillors comes only once every five years‚ citizens should act assertively and strategically now in their own interest.”..