Panday slams UNC, PNM MPs’ behaviour

Mickela Panday, leader of the Patriotic Front, has publicly criticized the recent disorderly conduct of Members of Parliament (MPs) from both the United National Congress (UNC) and the People’s National Movement (PNM) during a session in the House of Representatives on October 10. The incident, which unfolded during debates on the nominations for key police positions, saw a heated exchange between Leader of Government Business Barry Padarath and Laventille West MP Kareem Marcelle, escalating into a verbal clash that disrupted parliamentary proceedings. Panday, in a Facebook post the following day, described the behavior as ‘disgraceful’ and emphasized that such conduct undermines the integrity of parliamentary democracy. She stressed that power without discipline is perilous and called for MPs to uphold decorum, especially in a public forum watched by the nation. Panday also highlighted the role of Speaker Jagdeo Singh, who she noted failed to control the situation. The PNM, in a separate statement, accused Singh of bias and criticized his handling of parliamentary procedures, claiming it challenges accountability and transparency. The opposition reiterated its commitment to democratic principles and reminded the government that Parliament belongs to the people, not to any political party.