Caption: PNM candidate for Chaguanas East Richie Sookhai, second right, after filing nomination papers
By Faith Edwards
POLITICAL candidates using fanfare to bring attention to themselves demonstrate arrogance.
This is the opinion of political leader of the National Transformation Alliance (NTA) Gary Griffith.
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Griffith submitted his nomination papers for the constituency of Aranguez/St Joseph on Friday and instructed his party to steer away from the large music bands or trucks and other forms of entertainment while candidates file their nominations.
The NTA will be contesting 17 constituencies in the General Election carded for April 28.
Griffith speaking to the media on Friday at Market Street, St Joseph said while he respected his opponents and wished them well while adding, “I think I may be the better candidate to represent St Joseph.”
Dr Natalie Chaitan-Maharaj, the UNC candidate for Arouca/Lopinot goes to file her nomination papers with Jack Warner
Griffith will be going up against the People’s National Movement’s (PNM) Terrence Deyalsingh and the United National Congress’ (UNC) Devesh Maharaj.
He expressed disappointment in how the election campaign was turning out.
“One of the two candidates who is a friend of mine, he has actually been given instructions not to speak to me and when you get that type of division that is what has destroyed this country, the politics.”
Griffith said, “I think we really need to understand that sometimes politicians have divided this country.”
Former prime ministers Basdeo Panday and Patrick Manning ensured that the country was united especially during an election campaign, he said.
Referring to the UNC’s supporters outside of the office of the Returning Officer, Griffith expressed his disappointment.
He said, “I give specific instructions to all 17 candidates, inclusive of myself not to be involved in this kind of charade that takes place. This is Banana Republic politics, this, you are offering your services for a country, you’re supposed to be humble, you’re supposed to be a patriot. I said, I don’t want no tassa drums, no rhythm section, no lots of people turning up here, what are you turning up here for?”
Griffith continued, “You are offering your service to help the country and you have to turn up with fanfare and blowing trumpets, that is arrogance…I have reached already, I’m a big person in the dance, if you get on like this, like what you seeing here, before you even become a Member of Parliament, God knows how you will act when you become a Member of Parliament, that type of arrogance is not required.”
UNC candidate for Tabaquite Sean Sobers greets Narisha Mohipat, 69, during a walkabout in Gasparillo on Friday. AZP News/Sue-Ann Wayow
In Debe, UNC Oropouche East candidate Dr Roodal Moonilal was all out with his supporters.
AZP News met up with UNC Tabaquite candidate Sean Sobers in Gasparillo.
He said he was excited about the process and encouraged constituents to ensure they vote on April 28.
PNM Tabaquite candidate Marisha Alvarado who is new to politics assured citizens that they will get full representation should she be selected.
She said, “You can expect full representation, I am here to hear your concerns, I’m here to meet with residents of Tabaquite, constituents of Tabquite I am here to lobby for you, and I really want you all to get on board with Marisha for Tabaquite 2025.”
Larry Lalla, former UNC member was seen on Friday openly supporting PNM candidates Richie Sookhai in Chaguanas East and Faris Al-Rawi in San Fernando West.
“Great is the PNM!” he declared to the media while with Sookhai.
Sookhai urged, “Lend me your vote and I am sure you will never take it back.”
Al- Rawi posted to his Facebook page, “With deep humility, I stood this morning to complete the nomination process. I do so not for position, but for purpose—for the people of San Fernando West, and for the country we love.”
