Panday Advocates for Transformation in Trinidad and Tobago Leadership

Mickela Panday urges Trinidad and Tobago to seek genuine leadership change instead of superficial exchanges, emphasizing accountability and reforms for the citizens’ welfare as Dr. Keith Rowley prepares to demit office for Stuart Young’s succession.

Mickela Panday, leader of the Patriotic Front, emphasizes that Trinidad and Tobago should seek substantial transformation in its leadership rather than merely substituting one leader for another. This remark was made on March 15, the day before Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley was to step down, with Energy Minister Stuart Young poised to take over. Panday stated that the nation should prioritize genuine change over superficial exchanges in leadership, urging citizens to advocate for accountability and reforms that focus on the well-being of all residents.

Panday asserts that for too long, the country has tolerated leadership changes that ignore the struggles faced by the populace. She advocates for reforms that prioritize the interests of workers, businesses, youth, and communities. The Patriotic Front intends to lead this movement for true change, which they believe should be measured by the welfare of the citizens, instead of the simple rotation of political figures.

Dr. Rowley announced his retirement from electoral politics on January 6, with Young selected as his successor during a parliamentary retreat. Following a council meeting of the People’s National Movement (PNM), support for Young was evident among party members. It was confirmed that a convention will be held on September 28 to elect Rowley’s successor as party leader. Rowley has occupied this leadership position since 2010.

Subsequently, Rowley declared March 16 as his final day in office. On that date, the PNM plans to present its 41 election candidates at a special convention, where Rowley and Young are scheduled to address attendees. There is speculation that Rowley may resign his position as PNM leader during the event. Additionally, Rowley will not seek re-election as the Member of Parliament for Diego Martin West, with Hans Des Vignes nominated to run in his place.

Young’s swearing-in as prime minister is set for March 17, at which all PNM MPs and senators are expected to be present. He will assume this role under Section 76 of the Constitution, whereas Section 77 (3) permits him to make Cabinet adjustments post-swearing-in. Uncertainty surrounds whether Young will continue in his role as energy minister after taking on the prime ministership and who might succeed him in this portfolio if he does not.

Potential candidates for the energy minister position include Finance Minister Colm Imbert and former Permanent Secretary in the Finance Ministry, Vishnu Dhanpaul. Furthermore, questions remain regarding the Cabinet’s makeup, especially concerning Attorney General Reginald Armour and National Security Minister Fitzgerald Hinds, the latter of whom has opted not to seek re-election in the upcoming general elections.

Mickela Panday’s call for substantive change in Trinidad and Tobago highlights the need for leadership focused on genuine transformation rather than superficial replacements. As Dr. Keith Rowley prepares to retire, the expectations surrounding his succession by Stuart Young include not only a change in leadership but also potential Cabinet modifications aimed at addressing the populace’s needs. The path forward, according to Panday, must prioritize accountability and meaningful reforms to truly benefit citizens.

Original Source: newsday.co.tt