Patriotic Front: Citizens want informed leaders

Mickela Panday, leader of the Patriotic Front (PF), has clarified her position regarding Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s handling of national security matters amidst escalating tensions between the US and Venezuela. In a Facebook post on November 1, Panday emphasized that she was not seeking the disclosure of classified national security information. Instead, her concerns centered on the Prime Minister’s awareness and leadership during a period of regional instability. Panday referenced a previous post on October 31, where she questioned whether Persad-Bissessar was informed about the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF) being placed on high alert. The Prime Minister had stated she was unaware of such orders and urged the public to remain calm. Panday argued that the head of the National Security Council (NSC) should be fully briefed on such critical developments. She expressed concern over potential communication breakdowns within the government, stressing that citizens deserve confidence in their leaders’ ability to manage crises effectively. Panday concluded by asserting that her inquiries were made on behalf of the public, reflecting a reasonable expectation for transparency and leadership.