In a significant address to United National Congress (UNC) supporters during a fundraising Christmas dinner in Couva on December 13, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar outlined a demanding roadmap for the coming year. The Prime Minister characterized 2026 as a pivotal period for both the nation and her political party, emphasizing substantial work ahead without detailing specific challenges.
Reflecting on the UNC’s recent electoral victory on April 28, which ended a decade-long opposition status from 2015 to 2025, Persad-Bissessar acknowledged the loyalty of party members during difficult years marked by ‘intense pressure, hostility and challenges.’ She credited their sustained efforts for enabling the UNC to celebrate its first Christmas as the governing party.
The Prime Minister reported significant governmental progress within seven months of administration, citing restored ‘seriousness, stability and competence to national decision making.’ She highlighted legislative achievements including crime-fighting measures, enhanced public safety protocols, and institutional reforms aimed at rebuilding trust in state mechanisms.
While acknowledging bureaucratic delays affecting some initiatives, Persad-Bissessar reaffirmed her commitment to fulfilling the electoral mandate. She specifically addressed previous leadership doubts within party ranks, expressing gratitude to members who maintained support ‘out of conviction and genuine love’ rather than convenience.
Drawing from biblical teachings on servant leadership, the Prime Minister pledged to continue governing with ‘integrity, courage and care.’ She concluded by urging continued discipline and loyalty from UNC members as Trinidad and Tobago approaches what she described as a decisive period in national development.