Arima Mayor Balliram Maharaj has publicly addressed the controversy surrounding his appearance at a United National Congress (UNC) fundraising dinner on December 13th, stating his presence was motivated by personal rather than political reasons. The prominent businessman, who was sworn into office in September 2023 as a member of the ruling People’s National Movement (PNM), found himself at the center of social media speculation after photographs emerged showing him alongside Phillip Alexander, Minister in the Ministry of Housing.
In an exclusive interview, Mayor Maharaj revealed that his attendance stemmed from profound personal loneliness following the passing of his wife nearly five years ago. He attended as a guest of his nephew, who has been his primary companion and support system since becoming widowed. “I reside alone in a large house,” Maharaj explained. “He’s the only one who regularly takes me out. He treats me like a son and looks after my wellbeing.”
The Mayor acknowledged that he only became aware of the event’s political nature upon arrival but expressed admiration for the organization and execution of the function. Between approximately 8:30 PM and 10:30 PM, he observed attendees questioning his presence given his PNM affiliation. Rather than apologizing, Maharaj used the opportunity to call for an end to divisive partisan politics in Trinidad and Tobago.
“I believe it is time we move beyond this culture of political hostility,” Maharaj stated. “Political allegiance should not create divisions among our people. After sixty-three years of independence, it is imperative that we focus on building a unified nation where every creed and race occupies an equal place.” He articulated his vision for Trinidad as “one nation, one people, one love” where citizens can collectively enjoy the country’s cultural, religious, and recreational wealth.
Regarding the controversial photograph with Minister Alexander, Maharaj clarified that the initiative came from the Minister himself. “I am not particularly familiar with him, but we exchanged greetings. He subsequently approached me suggesting we take a picture together, which I agreed to.”
In a significant revelation, Mayor Maharaj disclosed he is contemplating resignation from his mayoral position to dedicate more time to family. He had initially committed to a two-year term when persuaded by former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley to contest the 2023 local government elections. Having served twenty-eight months, Maharaj indicated he would evaluate key developmental projects for Arima within the next six months before making a final decision.
His completion criteria include the establishment of a new Town Hall building, operational Social Welfare and Inland Revenue offices, new facilities for the Election and Boundaries Commission, an administration building, and progress on an indoor sporting complex on O’Meara Road. He emphasized the economic efficiency of consolidating multiple services within existing infrastructure.
Despite the political controversy, Maharaj continued his official duties by hosting approximately 2,000 children at the Arima Velodrome on December 14th for the Borough Corporation’s annual Christmas celebration. The event featured gift distributions, recreational activities, costume characters, complimentary barber services, and an educational police interaction booth.