Port of Spain – Opposition Chief Kamla Persad-Bissessar has described Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley’s choice to retire from politics earlier than the tip of his time period as “a transparent admission of his failure to steer this nation successfully.”
Rowley made the shock announcement throughout a press convention in Tobago on Friday, stating his intention to step away from politics earlier than the following normal elections. In response, Persad-Bissessar issued a press launch calling for early elections, asserting that Rowley’s early departure displays a authorities in disarray.
“The prime minister ought to now do the honourable factor and name the overall elections,” Persad-Bissessar urged, noting that whereas some could welcome the tip of Rowley’s political profession, the nation nonetheless faces essential points requiring pressing consideration.
In a scathing critique of Rowley’s tenure, the opposition chief accused the prime minister and his administration of mishandling key nationwide issues. She charged, “He and his PNM MPs, most of whom he has foisted on the inhabitants as candidates for the 2025 Common Election, have brutalised companies and impoverished residents, allowed a violent crime disaster, and destroyed each impartial establishment on this nation.”
Persad-Bissessar additionally raised issues concerning the latest declaration of a State of Emergency (SOE), questioning the timing and legitimacy of the transfer. “The federal government is in chaos. Why make this announcement after calling an SOE 4 days in the past? It’s clear that this SOE was a political gimmick that has already failed spectacularly,” she mentioned.
The opposition chief additional claimed that Rowley’s governance has left the nation in turmoil, pointing to financial difficulties, rising crime, and weakened public establishments. “His authorities’s incompetence has plunged each sector into disaster. Our economic system is in shambles, crime is rampant, and the protection and safety of our residents are at an all-time low. His legacy is one in every of failure, division, and despair, leaving a nation in darkness.”
Regardless of her sharp criticism, Persad-Bissessar sought to supply hope, stating that the United Nationwide Congress (UNC) is ready to revive stability and prosperity to the nation. “We’ve a complete crime-fighting plan that can restore security and safety to our streets. We are going to rebuild the economic system, restore damaged establishments, and produce hope again to the folks of Trinidad and Tobago,” she assured.
Because the political panorama of Trinidad and Tobago braces for additional shifts, requires early elections proceed to mount, with the opposition signaling its readiness to tackle the mantle of management.
