The uniform comes with a heavy responsibility. That was the message the Commissioner Of Police Allister Guevarro at the Toast to the Nation, where the sacrifices of officers tasked with protecting the country and maintaining the rule of law were highlighted.
At the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service’s Toast to the Nation, Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander reflected on the challenges facing Trinidad and Tobago, while expressing hope for greater unity among citizens.
He said despite the difficulties the country continues to face, there is a need for citizens to look beyond differences and recognize one another simply as people.
“I often wish that one day we would not have to be going through all of this.And we could all live in unity together as a people.
When we don’t see race, we don’t see creed, all we see is people. We don’t see those from foreign, we don’t see those who are local, we just see people. I’m hoping that one day that will come. And then we can enjoy a better Independence Day every single year as we progress.”
Also speaking at the Independence event, Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro highlighted the responsibility that comes with wearing the police uniform.
“The uniform is not a job. It is something entrusted to us. For law enforcement, independence is both a privilege and a responsibility. And every time an officer puts on that uniform, that officer carries out a part of this responsibility of independence. The responsibility to protect every citizen of this country. To uphold their rights, to maintain the rule of law, and to serve Trinidad and Tobago with fairness, integrity and professionalism. This is a heavy thing to carry.”
He added that true independence in policing should be reflected not simply in who leads the Police Service, but in the quality of service delivered to the public.
“Independence in policing should not be measured by who commands the police service. It must be measured by the kind of police service we have built. And can we do what is required of us to keep this country safe? Trust is the real currency of policing in a free society. Without it, we are simply an authority. With it, we are a service. And earning it, it is not the work of the commissioner or the administration alone. It is the work of every officer, on every shift, in every interaction with a member of the public.”
The messages came as Trinidad and Tobago marked its 64th year of Independence, with both officials emphasizing the importance of unity, responsibility and service to the nation.