Caption: Kamla Persad-Bissessar. Photo T&T Parliament
By Alicia Chamely
PRIME Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar is not above questioning nor is she beyond accountability when it comes to serious matters of national concern, says Opposition Leader Penelope Beckles.
Referring to a Persad-Bissessar’s vague statement “the picture is self-explanatory” when questioned by the media over aerial photographs of an alleged US military base in Tobago, Beckles criticised the prime minister’s response for “leaving the country with more questions than answers.”
In a media statement on Monday, Beckles stated she had warned that Persad-Bissessar’s lack of transparency had begun, “resemble the conduct of a dictator rather than a leader who respects accountability and democratic scrutiny.”
Taking issue with Persad-Bissessar unwillingness to offer a clear answer surrounding the US presence in Tobago, Beckles stated, “Citizens should not have to go on a hunt for information that rightfully belongs to them, especially when the issue touches national security and sovereignty. Leadership requires openness, not dismissiveness.”
Beckles stated, “I remind the Prime Minister that she holds office at the will of the people. She is not above questioning. She is not beyond accountability. This country does not belong to any one individual. It belongs to the people of Trinidad and Tobago and we deserve honesty, transparency and respect.”
She further took issue with the Prime Minister’s decision to turn the conversation into an attack on the previous People’s National Movement government, calling it “reckless and irresponsible.”
Beckles noted what was “disturbing” was “her suggestion that genuine questions from the public are a waste of her time and mere nonsense,” which she added reflected “contempt” for the people she was elected to serve.
She added, “No Trinbagonian is obsessed but rather concerned. We are asking for clarity on a matter of national importance. What deepens the unease is the constantly shifting narrative. One day the story changes, the next day the tone changes. This inconsistency erodes trust and fuels uncertainty.”
In regard to US actions on Venezuelan boats and oil tankers, which had come under scrutiny from various sectors of the international community for their legality under International Law, she said, “I have always maintained, as every Prime Minister before has done, that Trinidad and Tobago must respect international law and maintain proper relations with all countries, including the United States.”
“Additionally, our nation cannot consider itself well represented by a Prime Minister who demonstrates public disdain for international law, for the UN Charter, as well as such flagrant disregard for the concerns and questions of the population,” she added.
Beckles stated Persad-Bissessar’s decisions and statement had the possibility of putting T&T at “risk.”
She again reminded the Prime Minister, she served the people and her position does not put her above answering the concerns of the public.
