It was Father’s Day, and we selected a woman’s team over the team led by a bold, innovative, and respectful male. Congratulations to Kamla Persad-Bissessar on her recent victory in the internal elections of the United National Congress (UNC).

This election outcome reflects a broader issue: a missed opportunity for transformative leadership in our country. It appears that we are content with the continued incompetence demonstrated by both the UNC and the People’s National Movement (PNM) over the past 14 years. If these internal elections are any indicator, it suggests a likelihood that the current Prime Minister will retain power in the next national elections. Our acceptance of the status quo, as implied by the popular saying “we like it so,” raises concerns about our political direction.

As someone in the later stages of life, it is tempting to heed the advice of the calypsonian Patrice Roberts and “drink water and mind my business.” Yet, this country has profoundly impacted my life, enabling me to rise from poverty to a nearly middle-class existence. Despite my achievements, the current state of the nation leaves me disheartened. I had hoped to leave a thriving country behind, but the present trajectory suggests otherwise.

To the younger generation: it’s crucial to move beyond fear and express your opinions on issues that can positively shape our country. Your voices are essential in driving change. For those with government contracts, it may seem risky to speak out, but prioritizing national interest over personal gain is important. Large companies, too, must recognize that the persistence of crime and incompetence will eventually erode their profitability.

Those of us interested in taking on the responsibility for transforming this country have a year to effect meaningful change. My hope is that within this period, a new party will emerge, led by a collaboration of young people and honest, experienced elders.  Our country needs an alternative to the PNM and the UNC. 

In 1986, the public was absolutely discontented with the PNM after 30 years and sent a loud message by electing the National Alliance for Reconstruction (NAR) which was formally launched one year before in 1985.

The NAR’s combination of broad appeal, effective leadership, and a compelling campaign led to a landslide victory in the 1986 general elections. The NAR won 33 of the 36 seats in the House of Representatives, effectively ending the PNM’s three-decade-long rule.

This victory marked a turning point in Trinidad and Tobago’s political landscape, ushering in a period of political change and attempting to address the economic and social issues facing the country.

Are the stars lining up again? Let’s come together to do what is necessary to transform our country. Our future depends on it.

For the past 14 years, Mrs. Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Dr. Keith Rowley have led us, but they haven’t been able to stop the rise in gun violence, crime, or the decline in our country. Their time in power has been marked by a lack of clear direction and failure to bring positive changes, leaving us with increasing violence and economic problems.

Looking back, there’s not much progress to celebrate. Instead, it’s alarming that around 6,000 people have been murdered over these 14 years, making our country one of the most dangerous in the world. With an average of 500 murders each year, many of us, both young and old, are wondering if we should stay here.

This reminds me of what calypsonian Luta (Morel Peters) sang in 1987: ‘If Trinidad ever needed you, is now.’ His song spoke about the issues of that time-lack of discipline, political corruption, and social decay.

The song’s chorus still rings true: ‘If Trinidad ever needed you, it’s now, it’s now Because our society is falling apart, falling apart There’s no discipline, respect, or love What I see is a failure to communicate If Trinidad ever needed you, it’s now, it’s now.’

Our nation has been stuck at those crossroads since before those lyrics were written-and we’re still standing there, so we urgently need change.

Members of the UNC have a chance to start this change by voting differently this weekend. They can choose new leaders and bring in fresh faces. If Rushton Paray and his brave team succeed, it could change how we approach the national elections in 2025. We could get a leadership team willing to take risks, focus on building the nation, and care for our people’s well-being.

The UNC’s internal election could mark the beginning of our country’s transformation as we gear up for the 2025 general election. Change won’t happen overnight, but we need leaders who believe in working together and are ready to make personal sacrifices for the common good.

If we select new and different leaders in 2025, together we can build a brighter future and restore our nation’s promise of safety, prosperity, and opportunities for all.