Kamla: No MP de-selected

THE United National Congress (UNC) is not arbitrarily choosing election candidates, Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar said in a statement yesterday. She stoutly denied media reports that she was taking advice from some members of the United National Congress (UNC) caucus to change certain incumbent MPs.

“I strenuously deny such reports,” she said. “No advice has been sought from caucus members and none has been received about the composition of the UNC’s electoral team.

“Further, no candidate has been selected or deselected.”

Persad-Bissessar said the UNC is democratic and people-centred, and will adhere to its established processes and structures to prepare for critical upcoming elections.

“I have stated that the candidate-selection process will soon be initiated for the local government election.”

A similar process will be used for the general election.

“The party is currently undertaking an extensive consultation exercise with MPs and Senators, aimed at building consensus on policy and other vital issues in preparation for a resumption of national office.”

She alleged a deplorable state of national governance, with the population earnestly pleading for an urgent and dramatic improvement in the quality of their lives. As a result, the UNC was harnessing its human and other resources to be ready to bring positive change in the quickest possible time.

“I will keep the UNC family and the national community fully apprised on relevant matters with respect to preparation for the local government and general elections,” she said