In a stark editorial published in Newsday, former Trinidad and Tobago Health Minister Dr. Fuad Khan issued a profound caution regarding the gradual deterioration of democratic norms, emphasizing that democracies are not abruptly destroyed but systematically weakened over time.
Dr. Khan articulated that the erosion occurs through pervasive silence, rationalization of questionable actions, and uncritical allegiance to political leaders. He expressed particular concern about supporters who applaud every governmental decision while simultaneously dismissing all criticism as acts of hostility. This behavior, he warned, fundamentally undermines accountability and causes significant damage to vital democratic institutions.
Connecting his observations to the current political environment, the former minister stressed that genuine support for leadership should never necessitate the suspension of independent judgment. He posited that robust democracies inherently depend on continuous scrutiny, legitimate dissent, and the unwavering willingness of citizens to challenge decisions made by their representatives.
Drawing lessons from historical precedents, Dr. Khan highlighted the dangerous trajectory nations face when political personality supersedes foundational principles and blind loyalty replaces governmental accountability. Such conditions, he noted, often lead nations toward damaging outcomes that become exceptionally difficult to reverse once established.
The physician-turned-politician concluded with a powerful affirmation that constructive criticism constitutes essential civic responsibility rather than political sabotage. Trinidad and Tobago’s future stability and prosperity, he asserted, will be determined by informed citizens who prioritize national interests above partisan politics and institutional integrity above individual personalities.