Mickela Panday urges true change in Trinidad and Tobago, not just a change in leadership, as Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley prepares to retire. She highlights the importance of prioritizing the struggles of everyday citizens and implementing reforms centered on transparency and accountability. Stuart Young is set to succeed Rowley, with potential Cabinet changes expected following the swearing-in on March 17.
Mickela Panday, leader of the Patriotic Front, emphasized the necessity for genuine change in Trinidad and Tobago, rather than merely exchanging leadership positions. With Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley poised to retire, she urged citizens to seek real transformation. Panday stated that for too long, leadership transitions have neglected the struggles faced by everyday citizens and called for reforms that prioritize the well-being of all citizens.
She asserted that true change entails transparency, accountability, and reforms that center on people, businesses, and communities. Panday proclaimed, “Now is the time to break these chains,” indicating the Patriotic Front’s commitment to leading the movement towards meaningful progress. The focus should be on measuring advancement by the quality of life for citizens rather than mere political office rotations.
Prime Minister Rowley announced his retirement from electoral politics on January 6, with Stuart Young selected as his successor. This decision followed a parliamentary retreat, where Rowley’s retirement plans became clear. The PNM party expressed support for Young, with plans to determine Rowley’s successor scheduled for a September convention.
Rowley’s final day in office is set for March 16, coinciding with a convention where the PNM will present its election candidates. Speculation indicates that Rowley might also step down as PNM political leader. On March 17, Young is scheduled to be sworn in at the Office of the President, with all PNM members in attendance.
Following his swearing-in, Young is expected to make Cabinet adjustments, including whether he retains his position as Energy Minister. Considerations include potential replacements for Young and other key ministers. Under the Constitution, modifications to the Cabinet will occur immediately after Young’s inauguration, which raises questions about the retention of certain ministerial roles.
Mickela Panday’s statements underline the critical need for substantive changes in Trinidad and Tobago’s political landscape, especially as leadership transitions occur. She champions a focus on genuine reform that serves all citizens rather than superficial political shifts. As Stuart Young prepares to take over as Prime Minister, the implications of upcoming Cabinet changes are poised to significantly affect the governance of the nation.
Original Source: newsday.co.tt
