Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar is marking the 37th anniversary of the United National Congress, describing the party as a movement rooted in courage, unity and the will of the people.
In her message, the Prime Minister reflected on the party’s beginnings in 1988 at the “Club 88” gathering in Aranguez, where supporters rallied behind founding leader Basdeo Panday to continue the fight for democracy and representation.
Read her full statement here:
Today, we commemorate thirty-seven years since the founding of the United National Congress, a movement born of courage, conviction, and an unshakeable belief in the power of the people.
Our great party’s roots lie in the rain-soaked gathering at Aranguez in 1988, when citizens came together under what became known as “Club 88.” In that defining moment, amid uncertainty and challenge, they placed their trust in the leadership of our late founding father, Basdeo Panday, to continue the fight for democracy, justice, and representation.
From that act of collective resolve emerged a movement that formally took shape in 1989 as the United National Congress. From its inception, the UNC was never merely a political party. It was a national movement, grounded in the principle that this nation belongs to all its people.
Through its steadfast insistence on inclusion and respect for every religion, every ethnicity, and every community, the UNC has helped to redefine democracy and progressiveness in Trinidad and Tobago, anchoring it in equality, dignity, and shared nationhood.
Over the decades, the UNC has grown in strength and purpose, remaining rooted in the aspirations of ordinary citizens, families who work, sacrifice, and believe in a better future.
This year’s anniversary coincides with the one-year mark since the UNC returned to Government following the watershed electoral victory on April 28, 2025. That decisive mandate was a clear call from the people for renewal, stability, and leadership grounded in service.
In this first year, the UNC Government has begun restoring confidence, strengthening institutions, and delivering meaningful improvements in citizens’ lives. The work of rebuilding and repositioning the nation is underway, guided by fairness, accountability, and progress.
For me, this moment is also deeply personal. For sixteen years, I have had the honour and immense privilege of serving as Political Leader of this great party. It has been a journey marked by challenges, moments that tested our resolve, and the weight of responsibility that leadership demands.
But through it all, the love and loyalty have sustained me, and the unwavering support of our great members, who stood firm in every season, who held the line in difficult times, and who never lost faith in our shared purpose. It is that strength, unity, and enduring belief that have carried us forward, and for which I remain profoundly grateful.
The story of the UNC is, at its core, the story of our people. It reflects generations who persevered and believed that Trinidad and Tobago could be stronger, more just, and more inclusive. Today, that belief continues to guide us, with the firm conviction that better days are coming and brighter days are ahead.
As we look forward, our focus remains clear: to build a nation defined by opportunity, security, and dignity for all; to continue delivering for the people; and to honour the legacy of those who laid this foundation by ensuring its purpose lives on in all we do.
On this 37th anniversary, we pay tribute to our founders, recognise all who have sustained this movement, and reaffirm our commitment to the people of this nation. To every member, supporter, and friend of the United National Congress, thank you for your continued dedication and belief.
Happy 37th Anniversary. May God continue to guide our great UNC, our beloved Trinidad and Tobago, and bless our people.
