Opposition leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar says she is committed to preserving the freedom of T&T as a Republic.
In her Republic Day message, Persad-Bissessar said the country was under a slew of unprecedented attacks on every independent institution by the People’s National Movement (PNM) Government.
She said those institutions ensure the country’s democracy and safeguard citizens from the “unstable” nature of politicians.
“Unfortunately, what we are seeing today is an all-out assault on these independent institutions by the Rowley-led regime. The current fiasco involving the appointment of a Commissioner of Police also embroils the Police Service Commission, the President of the Republic and it all ties back to Balisier House with Keith Rowley giving directions,” Persad-Bissessar said.
The Opposition leader also accused the Government of compromising the “once-independent” Elections and Boundaries Commission, saying there was gerrymandering (manipulation of electoral boundaries to favour one party) in the creation of three new electoral districts in Tobago.
Persad-Bissessar said as the country marks its 45th day as a Republic, the basic rights and freedoms of citizens remain suspended.
“Under this present unjustified and unsubstantiated SoE, we have had our God-given rights and freedoms stolen by the PNM as they seek to repress and silence all opposition, inside the Parliament and outside on the pavement,” she said.
But she said the history of T&T shows that its people are not to be taken lightly.
“We have fought to protect and preserve our freedoms since independence to now and on this Republic Day 2021, I recommit myself and the party I lead, the United National Congress, to the continued fight to preserve and protect our sacred rights and freedoms that come with being a Republic.”
She said while the country is in troubling times, citizens must remember the success of those who came before them.
“Today, I ask that we all reflect and consider what it truly means to be a Republic and let us all commit to fighting for what that really means to us all.”