In a forceful address to Plymouth residents during a December 16 political gathering, Tobago People’s Party (TPP) prospective candidate Zorisha Hackett delivered a stark warning against political tribalism and self-serving governance. The Education Secretary and former Bethesda/Les Coteaux representative declared that the era of preferential treatment for the “select few” has conclusively ended.
Hackett emphatically stated that elected officials bear responsibility to serve all constituents equally, not just special interest groups. “No singular group should claim ownership of any politician,” she asserted. “No politician should function as a puppet on strings for any particular faction. Your duty extends to the entire district.”
Drawing inspiration from calypso icon Lord Nelson’s philosophy of unity, Hackett emphasized that partisan colors must be discarded after elections: “Ultimately, as my Godfather Nello articulated, we are all one family.”
The prospective candidate sharply criticized individuals entering politics with personal vendettas and concealed agendas, observing that genuine public service requires collective effort rather than solitary ambition. “Contemporary political engagement frequently lacks authentic passion and purposeful dedication to service,” Hackett noted. “Instead, we witness motivations rooted in resentment—the mentality that if one cannot achieve, none should.”
In a parallel development, TPP Political Leader Farley Augustine formally endorsed political newcomer Kern Alexis as the prospective candidate for Plymouth/Black Rock. Augustine characterized Alexis as the ideal representative to steward the district, highlighting his local credentials and capabilities. “A vote for Kern Alexis constitutes support for sustained good governance, quality representation, and homegrown talent,” Augustine declared. “This is an investment the community cannot afford to squander in the upcoming election.”
Alexis is poised to contest against the PNM’s Karyn Forbes in the electoral battle for the constituency.