‘A most overwhelming experience’

Tomorrow marks one year since Kamla Persad-Bissessar has been elected leader of the United National Congress. Reflecting on January 24, 2010 when she whipped her predecessor Basdeo Panday, Persad-Bissessar said she had a humbling and vigorating experience after a hectic internal party campaign to obtain widespread support from members of the UNC to become leader.

“It was a juncture in my political career which started 24 years previously.  I was what you would call a seasoned politician, having served 24 years both in government as well as in opposition and in local government.” Persad-Bissessar said the campaign trail gave her the confidence, but nevertheless, when the actual results were in “I could tell you, two days short a year ago it was a most overwhelming experience.” Persad-Bissessar said the election was critical to her success.