PNM tells PM: Look within UNC for ‘criminal ties’

Trinidad and Tobago’s political landscape has been thrown into disarray following Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s explosive allegations against the opposition People’s National Movement (PNM). In a statement on October 24, Persad-Bissessar accused the PNM of being financially supported by the local drug mafia, a claim the opposition has vehemently denied, labeling it as “baseless, reckless, and defamatory.” The PNM countered that the Prime Minister’s accusations were a desperate attempt to divert attention from her government’s failures and the growing public discontent with her leadership. The opposition further criticized her for refusing to address the nation during a period of heightened regional tensions with Venezuela, accusing her of adopting an erratic and isolationist foreign policy. The PNM emphasized its commitment to maintaining strong international relations, particularly with the United States, citing long-standing security agreements like the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) and the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative. In response, Persad-Bissessar doubled down on her claims, accusing the PNM of protecting drug traffickers and undermining national security. International relations expert Prof. Anthony Bryan weighed in, describing the Prime Minister’s language as “strong and defamatory,” and potentially libelous given the lack of evidence. The ongoing feud has further polarized the nation, with citizens demanding accountability and transparency from their leaders amidst economic instability and rising hardships.