Mickela Panday, Leader of the Patriotic Front, argues that Trinidad and Tobago needs genuine transformation rather than superficial leadership exchanges. As Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley prepares to retire, Panday emphasized the importance of transparent and accountable governance focusing on the welfare of the people over mere political turnover. Stuart Young is set to be sworn in as Prime Minister, with discussions around potential Cabinet changes pending.
Mickela Panday, the leader of the Patriotic Front political party in Trinidad and Tobago, emphasized the necessity for substantial changes in leadership rather than mere replacements. Her remarks came on March 15, ahead of Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley’s retirement and the anticipated succession of Energy Minister Stuart Young. Panday urged Trinidadians and Tobagonians to favor authentic transformation over simple leadership exchanges, claiming that superficial swaps have disregarded the challenges faced by the populace.
Panday articulated that real change encompasses transparency, accountability, and substantial reforms that prioritize workers, businesses, youth, and communities. She declared it is essential to “break these chains” of previous leadership practices. The Patriotic Front aims to foster a nation where the progress is evaluated by the welfare of its people, not just political turnover.
Dr. Rowley announced his retirement from politics on January 6. Following a parliamentary retreat, Young was identified as his successor. At a PNM meeting on January 11, support for Young from 20 PNM MPs was confirmed. The PNM is set to hold a convention on September 28 to select Rowley’s successor after he has led since 2010.
Rowley’s last official day as Prime Minister is March 16, coinciding with a PNM convention to unveil its election candidates. Both Rowley and Young are scheduled to address attendees, and Rowley may also resign as the party leader during this event. He will not stand for re-election as the MP for Diego Martin West, with candidate Hans Des Vignes representing the constituency.
Young is scheduled to be sworn in as Prime Minister on March 17 at 10 am. This ceremony will occur at the Office of the President and will involve all PNM MPs and senators. His swearing-in will follow the constitutional provisions, permitting him to alter the Cabinet post-swearing-in. Critical questions remain regarding the continuation of his current role as Energy Minister and potential replacements for other Cabinet positions, including Finance Minister Colm Imbert and Attorney General Reginald Armour.
Mickela Panday asserts that Trinidad and Tobago requires meaningful leadership change, not just swaps. She advocates for reforms that will benefit all citizens and insists that the government’s focus should shift towards genuine progress rather than political rotations. As political transitions unfold with Stuart Young taking over from Dr. Rowley, pivotal decisions on Cabinet composition and priorities are imminent, reflecting the need for immediate and impactful governance choices.
Original Source: newsday.co.tt
