Stakeholders: Political deadlock a blessing for Tobago

The People’s National Movement (PNM) and Progressive Democratic Patriots (PDP) are no closer to a power-sharing agreement, but some stakeholders see the six-six deadlock in the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) as a blessing for the island’s development.

During a virtual panel discussion, titled One People Together, on Monday night, hosted by Tobago CivilNET, stakeholders weighed in on the political impasse.

CivilNET is a non-partisan organisation comprising individuals and groups committed to the advancement of the island.

Tobago Youth Council president Janae Campbell said she was deeply concerned when she saw the January 25 THA election was tied.

“I saw it as something catastrophic,” she said during the discussion, which was moderated by communications consultant Michael Stewart.

“I knew it was something unprecedented because we didn’t know what to expect and persons were wondering if we are going to come out of it.”

Campbell said her position has since changed.

“I am now seeing it as a blessing in disguise. I see it as an opportunity for us to evolve out of divisive politics and an opportunity for us to unite as one.”

She added: “The six-six deadlock is a sign that we need to put our individual political ideologies aside and think about the betterment of this island holistically. But we must do it together.”

Another panellist, independent senator Maria Dillon-Remy, welcomed the impasse, saying it presents a new challenge for Tobago.