Stuart Young has called for new elections in Trinidad and Tobago just one day after becoming Prime Minister. Elections are scheduled for April 28, 2023, with a nomination day on April 4. This transition follows the resignation of longtime Prime Minister Keith Rowley. Young aims to secure his mandate amidst political challenges posed by the opposition, the UNC, led by Kamla Persad-Bissessar.
Stuart Young, newly sworn in as Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, has initiated a call for new elections on April 28, with nomination day set for April 4. His announcement followed a historic transition where he succeeded Keith Rowley, who resigned after nearly a decade in office. Young’s request to dissolve Parliament was communicated to President Christine Kangaloo.
Young is seeking to secure his own mandate amidst regional concerns about the implications of foreign policies on Trinidad. The opposition party, the United National Congress (UNC), led by former Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, has characterized the leadership transition as unconstitutional. Yet, after Young’s announcement, Persad-Bissessar affirmed that her party is prepared for the upcoming elections.
During Rowley’s final rally, he criticized the UNC and invited dissatisfied members to join his party. He lamented the UNC’s reaction to recent visa implications from the British government, which he argued illustrated the necessity for Trinidad to remove the Privy Council as its highest court. He also expressed gratitude to his supporters during challenging times marked by increased violence and the COVID-19 pandemic.
In their collective statement, Caribbean leaders from CARICOM praised Rowley’s leadership regarding security and crime. Young has retained his energy minister portfolio while appointing Camille Robinson-Regis as the new Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, alongside other cabinet changes, signaling a fresh directive as he embarks on his prime ministership.
In summary, Stuart Young’s immediate call for elections following his ascension as Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago marks a critical political juncture. The political landscape remains charged, with the UNC contesting the legality of his transition. Young’s leadership and decisions, including cabinet appointments, will shape the forthcoming elections and the country’s response to regional challenges.
Original Source: www.miamiherald.com
