Religious leaders in Tobago are calling for peace as statements with racial undertones have dominated headlines in recent weeks.
Religious leaders representing the Tobago Faith-Based Council gathered at Masjid Al Tawbah in Lowlands on Wednesday night for talks with Chief Secretary Farley Augustine, urging an end to the controversial statements.
Addressing the media after the meeting, Director of the Lowlands Mosque and spokesperson for the Council, Kameel Ali, said the comments were inconsistent with the principles and culture of Tobago and Trinidad.
“We condemn this in the highest form. In this day and age we should never have these talks going on because what it does, it incites and it divides us as a people because when you are in a leadership position and when you behave in that way, and when you carry on, what is going to happen? People are going to follow suit.”
Mr Ali said that in Tobago, religious leaders enjoy harmonious relationships with each other and are in constant dialogue about making a positive impact on Tobago. He wants the country to follow their example and focus on bringing people together instead of creating division.
Chief Secretary Farley Augustine echoed the Council’s concerns, warning that the recent controversy could have far-reaching negative implications if allowed to continue.
“I am disappointed that in 2026, Trinidad and Tobago is still here. We have to work on that because I don’t want us to get to the place where our economic fortunes are in jeopardy because we cannot work with each other. There are investors looking on at Trinidad and Tobago right now who might be wondering whether this is a good place to bring foreign direct investment.”
Mr Augustine reaffirmed Tobago’s commitment to inclusivity, emphasising that the island continues to welcome people of every religion, race, and ethnicity.