By: Paul Sarran
October 20, 2023
In the world of politics, few things are as potent as a call for change, especially when it pertains to the safety and security of a nation. Opposition leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s recent call for Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley to assume the role of National Security Minister has captured the attention of the public and the media. Her assertion that the country has become a “war-zone” and is in a state of “anarchy” due to rising crime rates has sparked debate and discussion throughout Trinidad and Tobago. This article delves into the constructive aspects of Persad-Bissessar’s challenge, analyzing the need for strong leadership in the realm of national security, the concerns about the rise in crime, and the potential implications of her call.
The Call for Strong Leadership
Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s call for Prime Minister Rowley to take up the role of National Security Minister is a direct challenge, but it is also a plea for strong leadership. In times of crisis, it is crucial for leaders to step forward and provide a sense of direction and purpose. Persad-Bissessar’s assertion that Rowley should “man up” and show leadership in the critical area of national security resonates with many who believe that the safety and security of citizens should be a top priority.
The Current State of National Security
To understand the gravity of Persad-Bissessar’s call, it is essential to examine the current state of national security in Trinidad and Tobago. The opposition leader’s description of the country as a “war-zone” is not an exaggeration; the statistics paint a grim picture. Serious crimes, including home invasions, murders, extortion, rapes, and robberies, have seen a substantial increase since 2015. This surge in criminal activity has left many feeling vulnerable and unsafe in their own communities. The government’s response to these issues, or lack thereof, has caused growing frustration and anger among the citizens.
The Prime Minister’s Budget Contribution
During the 2024 budget debate in Parliament, Prime Minister Rowley’s comments on national security have drawn criticism. The fact that he stated he would not be rotating the position and cited the opposition’s history with National Security Ministers raised questions about his approach to addressing the crisis. It is valid to expect more from the leader of the nation when it comes to tackling the rising crime rates.
Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s call for Rowley to assume the National Security Minister position is grounded in the belief that a leader should be willing to take charge and lead from the front, especially in a situation as dire as the one the country is facing. The concerns raised about the Prime Minister’s budget contribution, which did not address critical issues like the attempt on the Deputy Prisons Commissioner’s life, emphasize the need for strong and effective leadership in the realm of national security.
The Implications of Persad-Bissessar’s Challenge
While Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s call for Prime Minister Rowley to take on the role of National Security Minister has ignited a passionate debate, it also raises questions about the potential implications of such a move. Is it feasible for a Prime Minister to also hold the position of National Security Minister? What are the precedents for such a scenario? It is crucial to examine these questions and their implications.
Past Leadership Models
While the concept of a Prime Minister also holding the role of National Security Minister is relatively uncommon, it is not without precedent. Some leaders around the world have taken on this dual role when faced with security crises or when they believe that their direct involvement is necessary. The key lies in effectively managing the responsibilities of both positions. As Persad-Bissessar pointed out, “Other Prime Ministers have led national security where needed.” This suggests that it is a model that can be effective if done with the right commitment and resources.
Addressing the Rising Crime Rates
One of the primary concerns raised by Kamla Persad-Bissessar is the escalating crime rates in Trinidad and Tobago. The country’s crime statistics, including the 13 percent detection rate, the number of unsolved murders, and the increase in missing persons, are alarming. Her call for stronger leadership and a more comprehensive approach to tackling these issues is a valid one. The idea that the government’s response to the crime spree is to “publish a picture instead of intelligence, instead of increasing enforcement, instead of increasing the detection rate and the conviction rate” highlights the need for a more effective strategy in addressing crime.
The Role of Intelligence Services
Persad-Bissessar also raises concerns about the role of the country’s intelligence services. Her assertion that resources are being diverted away from fighting crimes to target political opponents is a serious allegation that requires investigation and transparency. An effective national security strategy should focus on addressing criminal activities and maintaining the rule of law rather than being politicized.
Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s call for Prime Minister Rowley to assume the position of National Security Minister is a bold move that has sparked public debate and discussion. It is a call for strong leadership in a time of crisis and a challenge to the government’s approach to addressing the rising crime rates in Trinidad and Tobago. While it raises questions about the feasibility of a dual role for the Prime Minister, it also emphasizes the need for effective leadership and a comprehensive strategy to combat crime and ensure the safety and security of the nation’s citizens.
In a time when the nation is facing what some describe as a “war-zone” and “anarchy,” the call for leadership is a call for action. Whether or not Prime Minister Rowley chooses to take on the role of National Security Minister, the discussion generated by Persad-Bissessar’s challenge has put the spotlight on the critical issue of national security, and that, in itself, is a positive outcome. The safety and security of the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago should always be a top priority, and this call for change serves as a reminder of the importance of strong and effective leadership in addressing such pressing issues.
(Paul Sarran is a student pursuing a Political Science degree at the University of the West Indies Global Campus in St. Augustine, Trinidad & Tobago.
He is currently in his final years of college and has intentions to become a Political Scientist or an Independent Senator)
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