The preliminary findings of an opinion poll being conducted by North American Caribbean Teachers Association (Nacta) reveal mixed views on the credibility of the plot to assassinate Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and ministerial colleagues. The poll is being conducted by Vishnu Bisram. While a majority of respondents say there was "something brewing" and there was credibility about the assassination plot, the findings show a nation largely divided on the issue by political affiliation or race. Nacta said almost every government supporter believed there was a plot to kill the PM and ministers and undermine the Government, while most Opposition supporters were not convinced of such a plot.
Initially, a lot of people were skeptical that there was a plot against the PM and her colleagues, Nacta said. And even now, most supporters of the Opposition say that the Government overreacted in arresting people without credible evidence, the findings show. According to Nacta, with the alleged plotters being held under detention orders, however, more and more people were coming around into believing there was a serious plot against the Government and support the actions against plotters. People felt the Government should come forward with solid proof to substantiate their claims of the seriousness of the plot. Some respondents, including members of the labour movement, felt the Government might use the coup plot to justify extending the current state of emergency.
On the state of emergency, a majority said it should be suspended so people could exhale and enjoy the holiday and Carnival seasons. Many felt the state of emergency had had a negative effect on the economy, costing many people their jobs and or lowering their income and their spending ability. Queried about their views on the unity of the Government in its handling of the coup plot, curfew, state of emergency and other recent matters, people overwhelmingly say the Government (cabinet and its MPs) has shown strong unity. Separately, people were overwhelmingly supportive across the political divide of the PM's decision to revoke the curfew. There were some, however, who said they had no problem living with a permanent curfew in order to put a lid on crime, Nacta added.