Caption: Errol Fabien
By Sue-Ann Wayow
ERROL FABIEN has decided to step away from politics.
In a statement on Wednesday, Fabien, a co-founder of the TV station Gayelle, announced his decision after more than two decades of political activism and four runs for public office.
“This decision has been sitting with me for a long time,” he said.
Fabien contested the St Joseph constituency three times as an independent candidate before joining the National Transformation Alliance (NTA), the party founded by former commissioner of police Gary Griffith.
Last year, he contested the Point Fortin constituency under the NTA banner but lost to Ernesto Kesar of the United National Congress (UNC).
Fabien said politics has been a significant part of his journey, and public service has always been central to who he is.
“When I first entered the political fray as an independent, it was because I believed it was the most direct way to serve. I believed that if you worked hard enough and stayed honest, you could unite people around a national vision. I still believe in that vision, but I no longer believe that the current political structure is the only, or even the best, way to achieve it,” he said.
Fabien, a comedian also known for his stand-up acts, added: “Over the years, I have watched the political space — and by extension, our wider society — become more divided, more hostile, more tribal. A tool that should be used for development is now too often used as a weapon for division. And that has weighed on me more than I can explain because everything I have built — my work, my voice, and my brand — has always been about the exact opposite.”
Describing himself as a man devoted to building bridges and uniting people, Fabien said he will not be “squeezed into a political box,” because he chooses country over politics.
Fondly called Uncle Errol by his fans, Fabien said he will continue to serve and contribute to nation-building in other ways, and thanked those who have supported him.
“To everyone who has walked this journey with me over the years, thank you, truly. Your support, encouragement, and belief in a better Trinidad and Tobago have meant more than words can express. This is not an ending. It is simply me choosing to do the work in a different, more meaningful way,” he said.
