Two Calypsonians Welcome Proposed TUCO Presidency Debate
Two of Trinidad and Tobago’s respected calypsonians are welcoming a proposed live, televised debate for those contesting the Presidency of the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation (TUCO), ahead of its elections.
This follows an invitation by TTT Limited’s Chairman, Michael T. Kerr, for the State broadcaster to facilitate the debate.
Rooted in openness and accountability, Mr. Kerr extended the invitation for a live, televised debate on TTT during an interview on Talk City 91.1FM’s Ground Report on Tuesday morning.
« When you’re talking about calypso, I want to share with you and, of course, to all the avid listeners out there on Talk City, on TTT and all the stations, the Chairman along with the staff of TTT is more than willing to facilitate a live debate on television for those vying for the position of President of TUCO. So those who are interested could reach out to us and we’ll have that debate set up. »
In response, calypsonian Kurt Allen thanked the TTT Chairman for expressing an interest in helping the calypso fraternity navigate what he called « a very difficult period. »
Though he expressed interest, there is one caveat: the current TUCO President, Ainsley King, must participate.
« I want to also say that once Mr. King makes himself available for a debate, I will be more than happy and more than ready to do so. I think it will be counterproductive to do a debate without Mr. King, who is the one who has the organisation in this particular position. And the members, we have a lot of questions, and it’s only Mr. King can provide the answer to those questions. »
TTT News also reached out to Roger Mohammed, known in the calypso world as The Bodyguard, who indicated that though he has not decided if he wants to throw his hat into the TUCO presidency ring, a debate will be welcomed.
The TTT Chairman said the debate would give TUCO members, stakeholders, and the wider public an opportunity to hear directly from those seeking office, ask questions, and better understand their plans and priorities.
« There will be an opportunity for the general public. As a matter of fact, we’d also have people who will be online that you can pose your questions, to the diaspora that are out there who would want to make, you know, their voices heard and ask questions. So there’ll be an opportunity for everyone to make that input for something as important when it comes to our culture. »
TUCO has not officially released the date for their Annual General Meeting, where membership will have the opportunity to vote for the next executive.
