COP Leader Warns of “Mortal Danger” for Trinidad and Tobago

Prakash Ramadhar, leader of the Congress of the People (COP), warns that Trinidad and Tobago faces severe danger under the ruling People’s National Movement (PNM). He cites rising crime rates, economic mismanagement, and the potential for a foreign exchange crisis. Ramadhar advocates for the revival of the COP and emphasizes the importance of integrity in leadership.

Prakash Ramadhar, leader of the Congress of the People (COP), has issued a stark warning regarding Trinidad and Tobago’s future, stating that the nation is in “mortal danger” under the leadership of the ruling People’s National Movement (PNM). Speaking at a political meeting at the party’s headquarters in Curepe, he emphasized that the upcoming General Election is pivotal to the country’s future.

Ramadhar highlighted the grave situation facing Trinidad and Tobago, cautioning that many citizens are unaware of the potential devastation that lurks ahead. He expressed concern that the situation could worsen if the current government continues to be in power, stating, “If we think things are bad now, we fail to understand the destructive forces that could be unleashed.”

In his speech, Ramadhar criticized the PNM for the escalating crime rate, particularly in areas traditionally supportive of the party. He remarked, “They cannot even control a community that they have governed all of the time from independence onwards,” indicating a significant decline in governance despite years in power.

The COP leader also condemned the government’s economic management, specifically referencing the closure of the Petrotrin refinery and the subsequent deterioration of the facility without being sold off promptly. He questioned, “What stopped the PNM from looking for a buyer back then?”

Ramadhar raised alarm over a potential foreign exchange crisis and warned that if the Heritage and Stabilization Fund is exhausted, the country could face severe food shortages akin to those experienced in Venezuela. He cautioned that if unchecked, Trinidad and Tobago might arrive at a point similar to Haiti, where governance has collapsed.

Additionally, he refuted outdated political narratives, asserting that the old claims about politicians engaging in corrupt behavior will not influence voters in the forthcoming election. Ramadhar reflected on the COP’s history, which, despite being largely inactive, he maintains is vital to T&T’s political landscape, insisting that the core values of leadership must include integrity, honesty, and fairness.

Concluding his address, Ramadhar called for a revival of the COP to restore its significance in national politics and confirmed that he would address any media queries in a news conference later in the week. The meeting engaged a diverse audience, all showcasing their concerns about crime with placards outside the venue, highlighting the urgency of the issues at hand.

The remarks from Prakash Ramadhar highlight significant concerns regarding Trinidad and Tobago’s governance and economic stability under the current administration. With assertions of growing crime rates, economic mismanagement, and a potential humanitarian crisis, Ramadhar urges citizens to recognize the pivotal nature of their upcoming elections. As the COP seeks revitalization, its leader emphasizes the need for dynamic political engagement, anchored in integrity and accountability.

Original Source: www.guardian.co.tt