Are there any genuine political 'fence sitters' in Trinidad and Tobago? If we are indeed the sum total of our experiences, then there is not even a fence to sit upon. In local parlance 'We well know already who we voting for.' The persons who elect not to cast his/her vote do not want to play political mas because they are essentially 'the powder.' They prefer to espouse the idea that Trinbago can realistically have an effective third political party that personifies perfection in all things. There are not enough nonaligned people in Trinbago to fashion this political Utopia.
Historically the country is (used to be) divided along race/ethnic lines–Afro Trinis/ Indo Trinis. The so called 'white' Trinis, the Chinese, the Syrian-Lebanese and the now very large population of 'mixed race/douglas and whatevers,' fit themselves along the main groupings depending on what they are offered for their support. Because we have free education from elementary to tertiary level, the new breed of young Trinbagonian is not constrained by what the 'political geriatrics' have to say. We live in a Trinidad and Tobago that follows international news and realise the importance and relevance of acceptable political behaviour in the global context.
The imaginary 'third force' is now comprised by the educated and upwardly mobile in the society. It is also comprised of the educated poor who now expect 'more' from government besides empty words. The outside world says the paying of taxes is a reality of life in order to support essential services. Who says otherwise has written you off as a 'dedicated fool.' The other stark reality is that it is just not acceptable to turn a blind eye to excesses of perceived government corruption and nepotism.
Between now and September 2015 there is insufficient time to craft a viable new 'third' party. There is even less time to throw 'perfume' on the various allegations of wrong doing. This election is not really about the leaders. The Prime Minister and the Opposition leader have their base support intact. None is 'stronger,' 'better loved' or 'more politically beautiful' than the other.
There can be no fence sitters. Ask yourself this: 'Am I being honestly served' with the emphasis on the word 'honestly.' And 'If the profit margins accrue to only a few, what must the other citizens do to effect a more equitable piece of the political pie?' Liberation lies at the tip of your finger.
There can be no fence sitters in 2015. Not if there is going to be truth and justice for all.
Lynette Joseph
Via e-mail