Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC has reiterated her warning to her Members of Parliament to perform in the best interest of Trinidad and Tobago and serve every citizen.
In her inaugural speech of the 13th Republican Parliament, Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar congratulated the people of Trinidad and Tobago for the part played in the orderly and peaceful transfer of government following the April 28th General Election. She noted a remarkable fact about the composition of the Parliament.
“This is the first time in 25 years, Mr. Speaker, quarter of a century, that there are three political parties in this house. So we welcome the third political party, the members of Tobago, and of course, government and opposition. First Parliament in 25 years. This plural composition is indeed a true reflection of a diverse republic.”
Mrs. Persad-Bissessar repeated a promise made on the campaign trail to govern for all of the people of Trinidad and Tobago. She issued a stern warning to MPs: if they do not perform in the best interest of the people, decisive action will be taken.
“And let me look at the mandate of our MPs. If you sit in this chamber, all of you, thinking you are here on your own frolic, believing that power belongs to you instead of the people who put you here, then be prepared for a very short stay in this chamber.”
The Prime Minister also gave an insight into her government’s legislative agenda, which includes prioritising safety in homes and communities, investing in education, and tackling the cost of living.
“We are cognisant that our citizens have given our government a three-fifths majority. That’s a very special majority, and we thank the people of T&T for giving us that majority because that is how the law is. We will need that majority from time to time, but I give the assurance today we will not abuse that power that you have given us. And so, as I close, I say people voted not just for a change of government, they voted for long-term structural change in systems, and therefore we will deliver that.”