Highway Reroute activist Dr Wayne Kublalsingh almost broke down in tears yesterday, as he chastised Independent Liberal Party chairman Jack Warner for actions he undertook as a minister in the People's Partnership during the launch of Democracy Watch in Chaguanas.It was the first time that Warner and Kublalsingh had met with a common vision, following the destruction of the Reroute camp on June 26, 2012, by Warner, who was the then minister of national security.
Kublalsingh, who was one of 11 speakers, accused the Government of being undemocratic. He said in March 2012 during a meeting with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, he was assured that the valuable agriculture lands would be protected, yet Warner came and broke down their camp."The Prime Minister promised to protect our social, ecological and social assets. She promised to save our temples, mosques, churches and schools," Kublalsingh said.
"We told them if you have to take these assets away then show us why you want it. Justify it! Do a study. When they eventually did the study what did the Prime Minister do? She thrashed the study."Slamming his fists down on the wooden podium and looking directly at Warner, Kublalsingh shouted, "So when we say government is undemocratic, don't come and mash up our camps 5 o'clock in the morning?
"Who are we Mr Warner? Answer the question? Who are we? Are we nothing?"Warner's face was expressionless, but he bent his head as Kublalsingh went on.Kublalsingh said it was up to independent voices like Democracy Watch to stand up for democracy.In a shaky voice, Kublalsingh added, "I almost feel to cry when I think of what had happened. Mr Ramesh Lawrence Maharaj stood up for us and he was our voice. I thank his great soul for his contribution to us."
Kublalsingh's movement is trying to get the Government use an alternative route for the Debe to Mon Desir leg of the Point Fortin Highway. However, Government is insisting it will go on with the project as planned, and recently won a battle in the High Court against the movement.
Kublalsingh ready for talks
In an interview afterwards, Warner said he understood the pain that Kublalsingh felt."I am sorry and I have in some way to make peace with Kublalsingh," Warner said."I haven't figured out a way as yet, but it is something I have to do. There are people in this country who I have offended by putting this Government forward. I have apologised about a dozen times because I made a mistake by believing this Government was sincere.
"I was wrong and I am sorry."Warner said he hoped that Democracy Watch could serve as a catalyst for other political parties to come together in a coalition. "Outside there is so much anger disappointment, bitterness and hate. I don't know if this country will ever come back to what it was before," he said.Kublalsingh later told the media that he was open to discussions with Warner.
"I am extraordinarily happy that he apologised and I am willing to meet with him at any time to build a cordial friendship with him," Kublalsingh said."I think that is a very appropriate mature and wise response. He was good friends with my father. However, I cannot be civil in the face of an atrocity like that so I had to speak my mind."Kublalsingh said he was preparing himself spiritually for another hunger strike if the Prime Minister did not heed the calls of the Reroute movement.
Members from several political parties and trade unions, including the ILP, Movement for Social Justice and Congress of the People (COP) attended yesterday's launch.Among these were president general of the Oilfield Workers Trade Union Ancel Roget, MSJ leader David Abdulah, ILP political leader Lyndira Oudit, national award recipient Jowelle De Souza, fired People's Partnership (PP) senator Mary King and supporters of the Highway Reroute Movement.