It is my opinion that the people of T&T, UK and the US were not stupid for voting for PM Rowley, Brexit or President-elect Trump, even though I do not support any of these choices.
These decisions were no doubt influenced by a growing frustration with political systems that continue to operate in a manner that is to many, counterproductive to their best ambitions.
In times like these people can more easily be swayed by an emotional belief that a saviour has been sent to reset the system, even when the facts are clearly to the contrary.
Democracy, in its present form, is certainly not ideal but we must make it work until better is available.
Since the present government assumed office on September 7, 2015, it is now clear that most of the propaganda spewed and promises made on the political platform were no more than fluff, designed to convince a polarised and frustrated nation which had also been bombarded by many untruths.
This government is like a dingy on the high seas without navigation or propulsion. There have been numerous reported examples to suggest that ministers have no clue how to manage the economy, the health sector, the education system, the tourism industry, foreign affairs, agriculture, public utilities, infrastructure, social services or, most importantly, national security. There is little or no accountability to the public, even as honest citizens are deprived of livelihoods brought on by mass layoffs.
Former prime minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar wasn't perfect nor did she preside over a perfect government, but that is true for every government that we have had. Persad-Bissessar cared a great deal about the people of T&T.
Her compassion drove her to introduce and sustain policies that focused on the development of the nation's children, their health, education and the family.
Our democracy, even in its imperfect form, still gives us the opportunity at election time to voice our displeasure in the policies and actions adopted by incumbent governments, and this local election is no different.
The population is now faced with a clear choice. We can either endorse incompetence or we can send a clear signal that we will not tolerate it and we will not support it. Sitting on the sideline cannot be an acceptable option.
As such, I urge you to use your power and come out in your numbers to vote. Do not let party loyalty or complacency take precedence over family and self loyalty
Garvin Nicholas
Former attorney general