By Sue-Ann Wayow
NOW more than ever, Trinidad and Tobago needs the United National Congress (UNC) to get back into Government, three decades after the political party was formed.
As hundreds of supporters decked out in yellow gathered at Mulchan Seuchan Road in Chaguanas on Sunday evening, UNC’s political leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar pledged again her love and commitment to party and country.
The UNC gave thanks in an interfaith service for its 34 years of existence, a party that was born on April 30, 1989 under its main founding leader Basdeo Panday with its symbol, the rising sun.
It also used the occasion to launch the opening of their new headquaters at the location.
Boasting of being the most diverse political party, the UNC was the only viable political institution of hope, Persad-Bissessar said as its goal is “good governance for all.”
She said, “As we look to the future, we know that there is still so much work to be done. Now, more than ever, our nation needs the United National Congress. We need to continue fighting for the people, working to build a more just, equitable, and prosperous society for all. We must recognize that the UNC was made for this moment.”
Persad-Bissessar continued, “This is a moment of darkness in our country, in every sphere of life. From education to schooling, national security, infrastructure, everything is crumbling and therefore, we have reached a point of no return with the present government.”
“It is only the UNC who can rescue Trinidad and Tobago at this point in time. We have the experience, the track record, the intellectual capacity, the people and the true love for our country, and love for all , not just a select few.”
The only forward was through togetherness and unification, the Opposition Leader said.
With the establishment of the new headquarters that is being leased, Persad-Bissessar said the UNC has a renewed sense of purpose and it will serve as a powerful symbol of commitment.
She acknowledged that contributions were recieved monthly from every elected person ranging from local government councillors to Members of Parliament which will be used to fund and maintain the new building.
Reflections
Persad-Bissessar started off her address by thanking God and all those who went before her calling out their names: Panday, John Humphrey, Kelvin Ramnath, Raymond Pallackdharrys
Oropuche MP Dr Roodal Moonilal said these six men took a new party into government after only six years in existence.
“They were brave, visionary souls. They stood up for what they believed in. They stood up for what they believed was right. In the highest places there were many enemies and they were able to prevail and within six years were able to take Government in Trinidad and Tobago,” she said.
Persad-Bissessar said, “For their sake, and the sake of our founding fathers who went before us, while we say thanks, we say, let us Stand Our Ground together to push forward to put the UNC back into governance.”
She took time to reflect on the progress made as a party and impact on Trinidad and Tobago.
“We improved this country in every way when we were in Government, and today I recommit and promise you that we will do it again to rebuild Trinidad and Tobago,” Persad-Bissessar said.
Crime went down, incomes, savings and investment increased, roads, bridges and schools and hospitals were built or repaired that had not been done so in decades, water supply, electricity, everything was improving and progressive, the political leader listed.
Transformative laws were also passed under a UNC Government, she reminded.
Persad-Bissessar told supporters, “Many times, our party has faced tribulations as we did when others tried to break us, but you have stood strong ensuring we become the second oldest party in our nation. You have always stood with the UNC because you know, the UNC is the only political machinery which is fighting for all the people of Trinidad and Tobago.”
Also speaking at the event were UNC deputy political leaders David Lee, Jearlean John and Dr Roodal Moonilal, senator Wade Mark and MP Davendranath Tancoo.
They all reflected on the UNC’s work, accomplishments and challenges over the years and pledged to continue working for the benefit of citizens.
Joy in serving
Becoming the political leader of the UNC in 2010, Persad-Bissessar said that Sunday was a special day for her since her greatest joy in life was serving the party and the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago, fighting for those who did not have a voice and were less fortunate than others.
She said, “Thirteen years ago, when I became your leader, I didn’t do so for the position. I did so because I wanted to serve you. I wanted to fight for a better way of life for you. I wanted to ensure that your dreams, your goals and your potential as a people was recognised.”
In giving thanks, Persad-Bissessar thanked all the party officials and members who worked with the party over the years and the rank and file members.
“The most important members of the UNC are you,” she told the rank and file members.
Gratitude was expressed to UNC’s secretary Peter Kanhai and his team for the organising of the event.
All the religious leaders representing a variety of faiths were gifted with a token for their contribution at the event that was packed with cultural items including Pundit Rampersad Parasram, the party’s founding chairman.
Persad-Bissessar also reminded attendees that local government elections were on the horizon, many nominations were received and screening will begin soon for potential candidates.
