PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad — Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has warned the opposition People’s National Movement (PNM) against using racial divisions for political advantage, amid continuing tensions over race and political rhetoric in Trinidad and Tobago.
Persad-Bissessar has repeatedly rejected claims that her administration is encouraging racial division, accusing political opponents of using race-related arguments to undermine the Government and gain public support.
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The debate reflects longstanding sensitivities surrounding ethnicity and party politics in Trinidad and Tobago, where the PNM and the ruling United National Congress (UNC) have historically drawn support from different sections of the population. Both parties have faced criticism over statements that opponents say risk deepening racial divisions.
The issue has intensified in recent months following exchanges between Persad-Bissessar and figures associated with the PNM. Former prime minister Keith Rowley, for example, called on Persad-Bissessar to apologise over her Independence Day messages, which he described as racist and divisive. The Prime Minister, however, said she stood by her remarks. <Cite refs={[“turn852026search1”]}/>
The PNM has also accused the Prime Minister and members of her administration of using rhetoric that could heighten tensions between ethnic communities. Government representatives have disputed such criticisms and have argued that political opponents are attempting to divert attention from policy disagreements.
Trinidad and Tobago’s political landscape has long been shaped by its diverse population, including citizens of African and Indian ancestry. Although voting patterns have often reflected these historical divisions, ethnicity alone does not determine the views or political choices of every voter.
The latest dispute has renewed questions about the responsibility of political leaders to address disagreements without encouraging hostility between communities. Race remains a sensitive subject in national debate, particularly when political statements are interpreted as assigning blame or advantage along ethnic lines.
The controversy comes as the Government and Opposition continue to clash over national security, economic policy and the direction of the country. The exchanges have added to concerns about the tone of political discourse and the potential consequences for public confidence and social cohesion.
As the dispute continues, the competing claims underline the need for public discussion to focus on verifiable facts and policy differences while respecting the country’s diverse communities.
