Environment activist Dr Wayne Kublalsingh is predicting victory in the Point Fortin highway struggle as they prepare to launch a series of intense actions against the Government. Speaking with reporters at a thanksgiving service at the Highway Re-Route Movement camp in Debe yesterday, he thanked God and the residents for their persistence and capacity to endure.
"And I think this quality will win victory for them eventually. The Government cannot stand up against action after action after action which we intend to radicalise and launch against them from now on. "If it takes seven days or seven weeks or even seven years we will launch actions and ultimately we will succeed."
Kublalsingh has been leading residents who are against the portion of the highway, an extension of the Solomon Hochoy Highway, which is supposed to pass through the Debe to Mon Desir area. They complained that the highway will destroy 13 communities and dislocate 300 residents.
Asked what he thought about Works Minister Jack Warner's comment that 41 residents cannot stop the highway, he said, "I know a story about Ali Baba and 40 thieves. That is all I have to say on that." In delivering the welcome remarks, Carol Sukal urged the gathering not to be distracted and keep their eyes on the prize which is preserving their heritage and empowered community.
Imam Abraham Haniff prayed that God would shower blessings on the Prime Minister and her Cabinet and give them understanding. "Fill their hearts with compassion and mercy towards the people of T&T." A pooja was performed by the Boohai family and Christian prayers were offered by Alfred Sukal.