Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC is calling on citizens to take greater responsibility for the country’s future as Trinidad and Tobago prepares to mark the 50th anniversary of Republic Day tomorrow.
In her Republic Day message, Mrs Persad-Bissessar paid tribute to “all law abiding citizens of Trinidad and Tobago who contribute to our nation’s progress and prosperity.”
Noting that Trinidad and Tobago became a republic on August 1st, 1976, with Republic Day observed annually on September 24th to commemorate the date the country’s first Parliament met under the new Republican Constitution, the Prime Minister said republican citizenship comes with responsibilities for every citizen.
She urged everyone to put the national interest ahead of personal and political considerations.
“Republican citizenship asks something of each of us. We cannot expect integrity in public life while tolerating corruption in our own dealings, or ask for safer streets while sheltering those who bring violence into our neighbourhoods.”
The Prime Minister said the country’s future depends on the choices made by its citizens.
“I ask you to stand for your country and for the future your children deserve. Place their safety, their opportunities and their hopes above personal and partisan advantage. Our future is in our hands. Let us exercise that responsibility with courage, fairness and love for Trinidad and Tobago.”
Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar also reaffirmed her commitment to the country, saying, “As Prime Minister, I will continue to work for the safety and advancement of every citizen.”