Outrage at PM Young’s Controversial Appointment: UNC Takes a Stand

In a bold and fiery statement, Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar criticized the appointment of Stuart Young as Prime Minister as an “unlawful act of desperation.” She accused the PNM of disregarding the Constitution and manipulating the situation to cling onto power at all costs. This controversial move, made without the mandate of the people through a General Election, was seen as a desperate ploy to create the illusion of change, hoping to erase the memory of the past decade’s hardships under the current administration.

Here are some key points and reactions to this contentious appointment:

• Persad-Bissessar condemned the appointment of Camille Robinson-Regis as the new Attorney General, labeling it as a sign of a sinking ship searching for lifeboats rather than steering towards a new direction.
• Dave Tancoo, the UNC’s Chairman, expressed his dissatisfaction with Young’s leadership, predicting that it wouldn’t bring the necessary changes to tackle the economic challenges faced by the country. He pointed out Young’s past failures in roles such as Minister of National Security and Minister of Energy, raising concerns about the future of the country’s economy under his leadership.

The Constitution speaks to the appointment of a Prime Minister in Section 75, outlining the requirements and procedures for the selection process. President Christine Kangaloo clarified the constitutional obligations surrounding the appointment of a Prime Minister in response to criticisms of Young’s installment. She emphasized the necessity of having a Prime Minister as per the Constitution and highlighted the specific provisions that guided her decision in this unique circumstance.

In conclusion, the controversy surrounding Stuart Young’s appointment has sparked debate and criticism within the political landscape of Trinidad and Tobago. The opposition’s concerns about the legitimacy and implications of this move highlight the importance of upholding constitutional processes and transparency in governance. It remains to be seen how this decision will impact the country’s future and the upcoming elections, underscoring the significance of informed and engaged citizenry in shaping the nation’s leadership.