Trinidad and Tobago’s Opposition Chief Pennelope Beckles has known as on the Authorities to offer readability following the announcement that this yr’s Independence Day Navy Parade and related State occasions, together with the nationwide fireworks show, have been cancelled.
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In an announcement, Beckles stated the choice had left the nation “bewildered,” noting that Independence Parades have continued even during times of nationwide disaster, such because the 2011 State of Emergency, with the COVID-19 pandemic being the one earlier interruption.
“The nation deserves solutions: Who made the decision to silence our Parade? Will the Prime Minister deal with the nation on this matter? What’s the true purpose for the cancellation? What’s being hidden from the residents? Will the Prime Minister do the honourable factor and face the general public on this concern?” she requested.
Beckles criticised the Authorities’s explanations, citing nationwide safety and monetary accountability, arguing that they “solely made the state of affairs worse.” She steered the choice mirrored a purely monetary evaluation of the Parade, with out recognition of its patriotic, social, and cultural significance.
She additionally highlighted an obvious contradiction with latest authorities statements on crime discount. “Simply 4 days earlier than the cancellation, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar assured the general public that crime was down and residents may really feel safer. What ought to we imagine?” Beckles stated, warning that the combined messages undermined the Authorities’s credibility.
Describing the transfer as “an affront to our independence, democracy, and nationwide identification,” Beckles cautioned that the cancellation may injury nationwide morale, notably amongst younger individuals who sit up for the annual celebration. She emphasised the academic and civic worth of the Parade, calling it “a dwelling classroom the place our younger folks see historical past in movement; and be taught in regards to the sacrifices of those that got here earlier than, the self-discipline of our armed forces, and the values that bind us collectively.”
Beckles urged the Authorities to rethink the choice and discover options, together with scaled-down parades, ceremonial flag-raisings, or a symbolic fly-past, to protect each public security and nationwide delight.
Trinidad and Tobago will mark its 63rd anniversary of independence on August 31.
