In an unprecedented open letter to Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Eli Zakour, former Works and Transport Minister Dr. Jack A. Warner has raised significant concerns about the implementation of recent 100% traffic fine increases. While expressing admiration for Minister Zakour’s courage in implementing unpopular measures, the 82-year-old former official questioned the Christmas night announcement timing that many perceived as a ‘Grinch who stole Christmas’ moment.
The correspondence, published in Newsday, acknowledges the necessity of addressing Trinidad and Tobago’s alarming road safety crisis but emphasizes the critical need for comprehensive enforcement strategies. Dr. Warner highlights the growing ‘bounce me nah’ pedestrian culture where jaywalking while distracted by mobile devices has become endemic, creating hazardous conditions for both pedestrians and motorists alike.
Most notably, the former minister demands transparency regarding government vehicle roadworthiness, specifically questioning whether the state’s extensive fleet—including ministerial SUVs, NP tankers, T&TEC, WASA, TSTT vehicles, emergency services, and military transports—will undergo the same rigorous inspections now mandated for private citizens. Warner emphasizes that public confidence hinges on equal application of regulations across all sectors, stating that the state must lead by example through full accountability and transparency.
The seasoned statesman concluded with recommendations for balanced enforcement, suggesting that pedestrian education and consistent standards across government and civilian vehicles must complement financial penalties to achieve meaningful road safety reform.