Tarhaqa Obika has suggested that his decision to leave the UNC was based on several things including disagreements over race relations and issues related to the party’s handling of integrity in public life.
The former UNC Senator last week resigned his position within the party and switched sides to become a PNM member.
Speaking on Power 102 Digital’s Power Breakfast Show this morning, he said that his discontent began in 2020 over a race related issue regarding a comparison between youths arrested in Sealots and youths found partying in West Moorings during the COVID lockdown.
He said it came to a head last month when the UNC senators, during a debate in the Senate, responded to a comment on race made by Dr Rowley.
Mr Obika added that this, combined with the unpopularity of his suggestion to establish of an African caucus within the party, led him to believe that it was time for him to leave the UNC.
Mr Obika also chided the UNC for its stance regarding the party’s handling of integrity in public life.
He cited namely the party’s willingness to allow persons who are facing possible criminal investigations to continue to hold office.
He questioned the judgment of the party’s leadership as he noted that even when charges have been filed against persons, no remedial action was seemingly taken.