Caption: Rushton Paray. AZP News/Azlan Mohammed
FORMER member of Parliament for Mayaro Rushton Paray will not be contesting the general election as an independent candidate.
Paray, who won the seat in 2015 and again in 2020 under a United National Congress (UNC) banner said he was sorry to disappoint the many who were hoping that he would.
He said he remained ready to serve country wherever needed.
Paid political ad
In a statement on Thursday, Paray said, “Over the past few days, I’ve received many requests and messages urging me to contest the 2025 General Election for Mayaro as an independent candidate. After deep reflection and consultation with my family, I have decided not to take that path. I know this will disappoint many of you, and I am truly sorry.”
Paray said, “In the interest of unity and stability, I have chosen not to respond to these calls. I understand the frustration and emotional impact this decision may have on my supporters. I thank you sincerely for your continued loyalty and belief in my leadership.”
He said real political maturity means standing by what one believes is right even when it was not the popular thing to do.
Paray again expressed gratitude to the people of Mayaro for their trust and support over the last decade, calling his time in Parliament the greatest honour of his life.
“Serving in the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago has been the highlight of my public service. I’m proud of the ten years I spent representing Mayaro and contributing to national development,” he said.
Paray also acknowledged the dedication of his constituency office team saying their hard work and commitment to the people of Mayaro and to the country have been nothing short of outstanding.
