Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar says even as this country celebrates its 41st anniversary as a Republic, under the current administration, T&T had seen no movement towards improving public institutions for the benefit of the people.
In her Republic Day message, Persad-Bissesar said the current approach to governance is authoritarian and citizens feel excluded and demoralized.
“We are seeing crime spiralling at an alarming rate, with citizens living in fear as they go about their daily activities. Our economy is in a downward spiral, with thousands having lost their jobs since this Government took office,” she said.
Persad-Bissessar said investment was drying up, and business people are facing tough financial circumstances.
“In all this, I want to remind the people of this country of the importance of our Republican status—the power lies in your hands. It is up to each of us to work together to bring about positive change in our society.”
She said although we are a young Republic, T&T has made significant progress in building a democracy and public institutions to serve the interests of the people.
“As a Parliamentarian and a citizen, I will continue to work towards serving the people of this country, and I maintain my call for all citizens to join with me and my team as we seek to continue to build our nation, and to build a brighter future for us all.”
Persad-Bissessar said citizens must continue to work to protect hard-won freedoms, and demand leaders take their responsibilities seriously, and work in the interest of all citizens.
“It cannot be that those holding high office seek the interests of a few while ignoring the needs of the majority. The people of Trinidad and Tobago deserve more, and I call on all right-thinking citizens to stand up for your rights and let your voices be heard. I will stand with you as we seek to further the development of our nation.”