By Sue-Ann Wayow
SHORTLY after Prime Minister-elect Kamla Persad-Bissessar declared victory in the general election on Monday night, social media was flooded with congratulatory messages some from Caribbean government leaders.
Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley posted on Tuesday morning, “Today, as Barbados celebrates National Heroes Day — the birthday of the Right Excellent Sir Grantley Adams and the seventy-fifth anniversary of universal adult suffrage, we are reminded of the enduring gift of democracy.
“It is therefore a pleasure, on behalf of the Government and people of Barbados, and as Chair of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), to extend warm congratulations to Prime Minister Designate, Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar and the United National Congress on their success.”
She wrote, “We also warmly congratulate the people of Trinidad and Tobago on the peaceful exercise of their democratic rights. In a world where democracy is often tested, Trinidad and Tobago has shown that true strength lies in the commitment of its people to participation, fairness, and free expression.
“May your democracy continue to grow, deepen, and inspire generations to come. We look forward to working together in the spirit of partnership and shared purpose, for the benefit of our peoples and the wider Caribbean region.”
Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness, also extended congratulations.
He said, Persad-Bissessar’s success at the polls was an indication of the confidence of the people of Trinidad and Tobago in her leadership.
Holness highlighted the strong and enduring friendship between Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, noting that the new administration’s mandate presented an important opportunity for strengthened cooperation.
“Prime Minister-elect Persad-Bissessar’s electoral triumph heralds a renewed opportunity to deepen and broaden our collaboration in areas of mutual interest, including, but not limited to, trade and investment, regional security, energy and climate change,” he said.
Holness said, “The Government and people of Jamaica extend best wishes to Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar for every success as she leads the republic of Trinidad and Tobago into this new chapter of national development.”
Both Prime Ministers also extended congratulations to Canada whose general election was also on Monday with Mark Carney gaining victory.
