Stuart Young Sworn in as Trinidad’s New Prime Minister

Stuart Young was sworn in as the eighth Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago on March 17, 2023. He succeeds Dr. Keith Rowley and has committed to leading with integrity and inclusion. Young highlights the cultural diversity of the nation as key to its progress and aims to reshape policies with an emphasis on collaboration and reform. His administration is expected to engage actively in CARICOM affairs, reflecting a robust regional cooperation.

On March 17, 2023, Senior Counsel Stuart Richard Young was inaugurated as the eighth Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago. His ascension to office occurs ahead of an approaching general election, with Young succeeding Dr. Keith Rowley, who has concluded his tenure after nearly a decade in leadership and 45 years in politics. Young, previously the Minister of Energy and Energy Industries, emphasized his commitment to leading with integrity, inclusion, and accountability shortly after his swearing-in by President Christine Kangaloo.

In a speech during the ceremony, Young expressed his vision for Trinidad and Tobago, highlighting the importance of harnessing the nation’s cultural diversity to foster opportunities for all citizens. He emphasized collaboration, stating, “We will put aside differences, leverage our collective experiences and expertise and champion the necessary reforms to transform and strengthen our nation.” He announced the naming of his new cabinet, starting with Camille Robinson Regis, who will serve as the Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs.

Young praised Trinidad and Tobago’s unique blend of cultural and religious diversity as fundamental to the nation’s progress. He stated, “Nowhere else in the world is there such a profound and dynamic blend of cultural religious diversity that not only co-exists but strives, shapes and strengthens a collective national identity.” This belief in unity persists from his upbringing, where he was taught the values of hard work and social justice by his parents.

Reflecting on his life’s journey, Young underscored the resilience exhibited by the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago amid challenges. He aims to lead the ruling People’s National Movement into the upcoming election against the United National Congress, poised to define the administration’s policies and direction. Young assured the public, “Together, we begin to write a ‘New Chapter.’ Together, we can and will move forward.”

Expressing regional solidarity, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley delivered warm congratulations on Young’s installation, looking forward to his contributions in the CARICOM Quasi-cabinet. Mottley reaffirmed CARICOM’s commitment to assist Young as he strives to build a stable and prosperous future for Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean region.

Stuart Young’s inauguration as the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago marks a significant transition in the political landscape of the nation. He has pledged to lead with integrity, emphasizing unity amidst diversity, and aims to engage actively in shaping national policies and regional cooperation. Young’s focus on collaboration and reform highlights a commitment to addressing the challenges ahead while inspiring confidence in the nation’s collective strength as it advances towards a new chapter.

Original Source: jamaica-gleaner.com