Will things get better?

As passions grow and political divisions sharpen, as the country heads into its greatest national event – general elections – the question for all is: Will things get better?

Citizens of all political shades now have a civic duty to demand better from all political leaders and their parties, especially Dr Keith Rowley (PNM) and Kamla Persad-Bissessar (UNC). As they now say in the US, we too have an opportunity to make things better with education, crime, finance, agriculture, political accountability and even in the choice of election candidates.

Past mistakes should not be repeated. Given the piled-up needs and frustrations across the country, candidates should understand it will be no bed of roses. Getting a better life matters. Elections are for public service – not just posing, speech-making or picture-taking. I commend those who enter the race – civic duty. I empathise with those in office. There are hardships but still, better can be done.

In their boastful campaign speeches, candidates will promise “to serve all citizens, fairly, conscientiously and honestly.” But things quickly change after. Look back and see which elected PNM MP or minister served the country “fairly and honestly” (2015-2020). Do the same thing for the UNC MPs whether ministers or in opposition. Select accordingly. It is taxpayers who pay for political incompetence and corruption. The country has suffered too much from broken promises and institutions, corruption, horrible infrastructure. Democratise your party. Help ensure things get better. Otherwise you will get the government you deserve.

Cut down on spite and favouritism. Among the qualities to look for in candidates are loyalty, trustworthiness, relevant abilities, integrity and community reputation. In fact, it should be mandatory to select candidates who belong and who have served the particular community, especially when so many elected politicians have turned their backs on constituents. Mine did. And I remain so angry I have put the matter in the hands of the independent Ombudsman.

So far, Rowley seems prepared to bite the bullet. Persad-Bissessar should know what she has to do to gain public trust. She promises improved political integrity and governance, no repetition of the financial scandals from the Education Facilities Company Ltd (2010-15) and noting PNM Education Minister Garcia’s allegation in Parliament of the “$50,000 kickbacks.” The Education Ministry has long suffered from recycled policy and operational failures. Long-lasting consequences are very serious. Both Rowley and Persad-Bissessar should ensure that the country, particularly the “little black boys,” gets the educational leadership it deserves. Could Pennelope Beckles or Hazel Manning fit the bill if PNM wins? If UNC wins, as a former minister of education, Persad-Bissessar should avoid putting a square peg in round hole.

As of Thursday, the UNC has homespun Michelle Benjamin for Moruga, Marsha Riley-Walker against Dr Rowley in Diego Martin West, and warrior-like Sean Sobers challenging AG Faris Al-Rawi in San Fernando West, not forgetting army-man Alhoy Hunt taking on Terrence Deyalsingh in shaky St Joseph. Will UNC Jearlean John bring down veteran Camille Robinson-Regis in Arouca/Maloney? How safe is Maxie Cuffie's La Horquetta/Talparo seat? Will bright Allyson West fight? The UNC has Saddam Hosein, Anita Haynes, Ramona Ramdial – all young, intelligent and so far corruption-free. Rudranath Indarsingh deserves a return. Former COP member, Bhoe Tewarie has earned his UNC stripes. From insiders, Tim Gopeesingh has exhausted his front-line usefulness. Worthy of ministerial status are Lackram Bodoe, David Lee and Rushton Paray.

While Brian Manning brings some shine to the PNM, his predecessor, Randall Mitchell, has talent that deserves attention. There are also “misfit” ministers. MP Clarence Rambharat is intelligent and quite articulate but obviously no passion for agriculture. As an attorney, he may be more useful in the PM's or AG's office.

A fatal weakness of party politics is putting anybody anywhere. Though favoured by Rowley, Rohan Sinanan seems more suitable for backroom planning.

The PNM “big three” – Faris Al-Rawi, Colm Imbert and Stuart Young – are safe. Ubiquitous and articulate, MP Fitzgerald Hinds remains Rowley’s “Plan B” man. Democracy gives elected politicians great space for personal discretion and integrity. However, their powers can be easily abused especially where there are weak oversight institutions. This is a big part of the country’s experience, leaving many to wonder whether things will get any better.