Des Vignes THA Stood Firm Against 'Wicked' Tactics
In a fiery address to supporters in Charlotteville, People’s National Movement (PNM) candidate Kwesi Des Vignes warned the electorate to be vigilant against « recycled tricks » ahead of the January 12th Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections. Speaking on the campaign platform, Des Vignes drew sharp parallels between the current political climate and the 2013-2015 period, describing the administration of that era as a « wicked government » that sought to oppress the island.
Des Vignes cautioned that opponents are employing the « same playbook » used during the People’s Partnership administration. He referenced controversial moments such as the « Section 34 » scandal, noting that legislation was passed « in the still of the night » while citizens were distracted by independence celebrations. He argued that similar patterns are emerging today, citing sudden increases in the cost of living and bureaucratic hurdles. « Christmas morning… traffic fines gone up 100 percent, all of a sudden custom duties gone up, » Des Vignes stated, adding that export licenses were used as a « PR stunt » that ultimately stifled Tobago’s ability to export materials.
A significant portion of his address focused on the 2015 legal battle regarding the Reforestation Program. Des Vignes recalled how the central government at the time attempted to « shut down » the program and bypass the Assembly to establish their own initiatives. He praised the Orville London-led THA for refusing to capitulate to what he termed victimization and oppression. Highlighting the resilience of the Assembly, he pointed to a 2015 High Court ruling by Justice Kangaloo, which he asserted « stands today » as a testament to the THA’s refusal to back down in the face of executive pressure.
Des Vignes urged voters to reject those he claims are aligned with these historical attempts to undermine Tobago’s autonomy, positioning the PNM as the shield against such political maneuvering.
#tobagoupdates #KwesiDesVignes #Charlotteville #THAElections #Tobago #PNM #politics #campaign
