In a fiery campaign launch at Magdalena Grand Beach and Golf Resort on December 13, People’s National Movement leader Pennelope Beckles issued a stark warning to Tobagonians about impending election manipulation tactics. The “Red Revival” event marked the official presentation of PNM candidates for the upcoming Tobago House of Assembly elections.
Beckles revealed intelligence about substantial resources being prepared for shipment to Tobago, explicitly stating: “There is money galore. I want to remind you that in Trinidad particularly, they went to certain constituencies offering ham, lamb and jam; offering from microwave, bed, fridge, stove.” She cautioned citizens against accepting last-minute electoral gifts, emphasizing that genuine development requires consistent commitment rather than seasonal generosity.
The opposition leader delivered a direct message to Tobago People’s Party leader Farley Augustine: “He needs to understand that next year the PNM celebrates 70 years as a party. PNM people here in Tobago, we have travelled this road before, we are a resilient party.” She invoked the party’s historical legacy, naming prominent figures including Orville London, Kelvin Charles, and Tracy Davidson-Celestine while comparing the party’s resilience to the balisier symbol that regenerates after being cut or burned.
Meanwhile, THA Minority Leader Kelvon Morris extended an olive branch to former PNM members now aligned with other parties. He specifically addressed TPP candidate Keigon Denoon, Tobago West MP Joel “Nuttsy” Sampson, and several other officials, urging them to “come back home to the arms of the PNM.” Morris emphasized the party’s readiness to “rescue Tobago and put Tobago first again” under what he described as exemplary leadership.
The PNM unveiled its full slate of candidates across Tobago’s electoral districts, including Ancil Dennis for Buccoo/Mt. Pleasant, Karyn Forbes for Plymouth/Black Rock, and Petal Daniel-Benoit for Scarborough/Mt Grace, signaling their comprehensive preparation for the January 12 electoral contest.