PM Slams Public Violence During Independence Weekend
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC has condemned what she described as “irresponsible behaviour” captured during three separate incidents over the Independence long weekend.
In a video shared by the Prime Minister, footage showed two altercations following a party in western Trinidad, while a third incident showed a man being struck by a car in what appeared to be a deliberate act.
In a statement on Tuesday evening, Mrs Persad-Bissessar criticised the conduct displayed in the footage, noting that the majority of citizens are “decent, law-abiding people who should not have to live in a lawless dump because of criminals and belligerent individuals”.
She also pointed to the country’s murder toll, saying 85 murders had been recorded this year as a result of altercations that she described as avoidable.
“Eighty five murders have occurred this year because of altercations that were totally avoidable. We cannot keep blaming the TTPS, Judiciary, the British Empire, and every other entity for violence and crime when supposedly normal persons are behaving like this in public.”
Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar urged people who cannot conduct themselves appropriately in public to remain at home, saying their behaviour should not prevent law-abiding citizens and their families from enjoying the country.
“If you can’t behave properly in public, please stay home so decent, law-abiding citizens and their families can enjoy the country without suffering from your lack of personal responsibility.”
