By Sue-Ann Wayow

FORMER member of parliament for Mayaro Rushton Paray extended his congratulations to United National Congress (UNC) political leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar on her massive victory on Monday night.

He also issued congratulations to incoming MP UNC’s Nicholas Morris.

In a social media post on Monday night, Paray said, “I extend sincere congratulations to Mrs Kamla Persad-Bissessar on her success at the 2025 general elections. Her return to government reflects the will of the people and signals a renewed mandate for better governance, national stability and a focus on delivering results. I trust that under her stewardship, there will be stronger accountability, improved institutions and meaningful support for struggling communities across Trinidad and Tobago.”

Paray, who contested the UNC internal elections last year against Persad-Bissessar, was labelled “dissident” by the party majority along with four other UNC MPs, two of whom found their way to the People’s National Movement (PNM) platforms, two days before the general election.

MPs Rushton Paray, Dr Rai Ragbir, Dinesh Rambally, Rodney Charles and Anita contested internal UNC elections after calling for it on a slate opposed to one supported by UNC leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar. They all lost. Rambally and Haynes were at the PNM final election rally at the Eddie Hart Grounds in Tarcarigu on Saturday.

Paray said that taking up the role as MP would be no small task.

“The constituency faces serious, long-standing issues, from deteriorating roads, coastal erosion, inadequate water services, to limited access to state agencies, joblessness, and rising crime,” he said.

Paray said, “Mr Morris inherits the responsibility of addressing these matters both at the grassroots and national levels. The people of Mayaro will be depending on him to bring practical solutions, fight for their fair share of resources and be visible and accessible in every community.

“I wish him the strength to stay grounded, the patience to navigate the system, and the courage to speak up where it matters. Representing Mayaro demands commitment and consistency, not slogans, but action.”

Paray said although he has stepped away from active parliamentary representation, he remained committed to national service in whatever capacity he can contribute.

He also said, “My respect and gratitude go out to the people of Mayaro, who trusted me over the years. I thank you all for your support, and I encourage every citizen to stay engaged, hold your representatives accountable, and push for the change you want to see.”