By Prior Beharry
OPPOSITION Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar has clarified her position regarding United National Congress (UNC) founding father Basdeo Panday. She said she did not mock Panday.
She said she has deep respect and admiration for him.
Persad-Bissessar refuted claims of mocking Panday and affirmed her unwavering admiration, stating that he was her guru and continues to hold a special place in her heart.
The clarification comes after Persad-Bissessar delivered a speech at Preysal Secondary School on Monday, where she reflected on the evolution of the UNC and said that smaller parties contributing to the political landscape must prove their weight.
In her speech, she recalled the “Panday days” when some party members were compared to “sheep” and had limited opportunities to voice their opinions.
Persad-Bissessar said, “They sacrifice so much for our party and myself to keep us going. The UNC rank and file membership will not be used and abused and treated as hewers of wood and drawers of water. I will not let that happen as long as I am here. That will not happen under my watch.”
She said, “You will be treated equally to me. I am equal to every UNC member. We all share the same importance. Without each other, we are nothing.”
Persad-Bissessar said, “I remember in the early UNC days, in the Panday days, our supporters were sometimes treated like sheep.
“The hierarchy of the party at that time would tell us, ‘bring sheep, bring sheep, bring people’, and put us all to sit down down in the crowd there in Rienzi (Complex) and then the one or two fellas every single meeting they will talk to the sheep.
“I remembered that. I detested that treatment of the rank and file of our membership. And when I became your leader I have tried in every way to change that.”
Addressing the media, Persad-Bissessar highlighted the positive changes within the UNC, citing the emergence of social media groups and increased communication channels that allow members to voice their opinions more freely. She assured that she remains accessible to party members, fostering a more inclusive environment compared to the past.
The Opposition Leader’s comments were not without controversy, as Mayaro MP Rushton Paray took to social media, urging supporters to “Stand up to those who mock Panday!” and calling for the protection of Panday’s legacy.
Responding to these sentiments, Persad-Bissessar reiterated her respect for UNC rank and file members, describing them as hard-working, bright, and diligent individuals. She emphasized the importance of treating party members with respect and dignity.
In anticipation of the upcoming general elections, Persad-Bissessar disclosed that the closing of nominations was imminent, and the subsequent screening and selection of candidates will soon commence.
Support independent journalism. AZP News is an independent news organisation that is not affiliated with any big business and depends solely on advertising to pay our bills. Therefore, we are asking for the generosity of our readers to help us with small donations of any amount, but we will be happy with US$1, US$5 or US$10. Click Here to Donate
