PM Urges Safety for Christmas Season

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Caption: Kamla Persad-Bissessar. Photo: T&T Parliament

By Prior Beharry

PRIME Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar used her Christmas 2025 message to link the nativity story with themes of freedom, public service and regional human rights concerns, while urging citizens to put safety first during the holiday season.

Quotingthe Gospel of Luke, she said, “He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the captives and to set the oppressed free.”

Persad-Bissessar described Christmas as “a sacred and cherished season that invites reflection, gratitude, and renewed purpose.”

She said the birth of Jesus Christ “affirmed the dignity and shared humanity of all people,” and framed Christ’s mission as one that confronted oppression from the start. Quoting the Gospel of John, she said Jesus came as “the true light, which gives light to everyone,” adding, “From the very beginning, that light confronted oppression.”

Persad-Bissessar pointed to the biblical account of the Holy Family fleeing King Herod, saying Christ’s life “began in solidarity with the persecuted, the displaced, and the powerless.” She said the Christmas story carries a warning about leadership without humanity: “Christ’s life teaches us that true strength is found in service and that authority, without compassion, becomes oppression.”

While praising Christmas as a national celebration reflecting Trinidad and Tobago’s “rich diversity and cherished democratic freedoms,” she said the country should remain mindful of those living without similar liberties.

“In neighbouring countries, populations are forced to live under repression, violence, and economic hardship,” she said.

Persad-Bissessar said, “Indeed, the meaning of Christmas is revealed through action: caring for the sick, feeding the hungry, protecting children, and working for peace. In serving others, we honour the heart of this season.

“As we reflect on the past year, we can acknowledge that over the last eight months, our nation has begun to steady itself.

There is renewed seriousness in public life and a stronger focus on service, responsibility, and integrity. While challenges remain, there is confidence that when the welfare of the people is placed first, the future can be shaped with purpose.”

Referring to John 1:5, she said: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” But she said that the season’s meaning must be demonstrated in practical ways.

The Prime Minister also urged citizens to “place safety at the forefront of this holiday period.” She warned motorists: “Be careful on our roads. Do not drink and drive.” She also called for vigilance at home: “Ensure that children are supervised and protected at all times,” and encouraged citizens to “look out for your neighbours and care for your families and pets.”