An Opposition delegation met with the Communications Workers Union (CWU) at the Office of the Leader of Opposition on Friday, to discuss mutual concerns about the erosion of democracy in our nation.
The meeting was to discuss mapping out a course of action in defense of our nation’s constitution, democracy, rule of law, the principle of the separation of powers, and the promotion of effective and meaningful people’s participation and power in the democratic decision-making process of our nation.
The Opposition delegation comprised MP Rudranath Indarsingh, MP Dr Roodal Moonilal and Senator Wade Mark. Representing the CWU were President Joanne Ogeer, Secretary-General Clyde Elder, and Assistant Secretary-General Desmond Campbell.
The Opposition and the CWU delegations agreed on several important national issues. These include:
1. That the erosion of independent institutions is a matter of grave concern for all citizens in our country no matter on which side of the political aisle they sit.
2. That the PNM’s circumvention of the Constitution by masquerading three-fifths majority legislation as simple majority ones to is extremely disturbing.
3. That debate was purposely stifled by the Speaker of the House on the recent Opposition motion to hold Her Excellency the President to account for the collapse of the Police Service Commission was worrisome.
4. That the shadowy circumstances which led to the collapse of the Police Service Commission and the fact that T&T is now without a Police Commissioner poses a threat to the democracy and security of Trinidad and Tobago.
Both delegations agreed that these discussions were productive. They vowed to continue the conversation about how citizens can most effectively preserve their democratic rights and freedoms.
This meeting is the first of many such conversations that the Opposition will hold in the coming weeks with Trade Unions, Non-Governmental Organizations, and other civil society groups.
The United National Congress remains committed to defending the constitutional rights and freedoms of all citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.
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