By: Paul Sarran
July 25, 2023
The goal of becoming a developed nation is a fundamental aspiration, and many countries around the world share this desire with Trinidad and Tobago. However, growth isn’t always straightforward; it’s determined by a number of factors like history, economic policy, social challenges, leadership, and external factors.
A desire for improved responsibility and responsiveness in the political system is reflected in the proposal to amend the constitution in order to make it possible to hold elections more frequently in situations in which the people are dissatisfied with the performance of their leaders. A plan like this one seeks to increase the amount of direct power voters have to express their support or disapproval of elected leaders, which has the potential to improve democratic representation.
Changes to a nation’s constitution, on the other hand, should be undertaken with extreme prudence because of the long-term effects those changes can have on the nation’s stability and its ability to function. If it is not carefully executed, a system in which elections are held frequently on the basis of dissatisfaction could likewise contribute to instability and disturb governance. The maintenance of accountability and the suppression of political anarchy both require the existence of an appropriate balance.
There are many different procedures that nations can use to hold elected people responsible, such as recall elections, votes of no confidence, and regular elections based on fixed terms. Some of these mechanisms have been discussed in the previous section. Each strategy comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks, and the one that is likely to prove most effective will likely be determined by the specific circumstances and the political culture of Trinidad and Tobago.
It is necessary for citizens to engage in constructive conversation and actively participate in the democratic process if there is a common conviction that the current political system is not effectively serving the interests of the people. If this is the case, the current political system must be changed. This could involve pushing for reforms, supporting candidates that prioritise good governance, and encouraging transparency and accountability within government institutions, among other possible actions.
In the end, obtaining the status of a developed country and constructing a powerful and sustainable nation call for a concerted effort on the part of all parties involved, including the government, corporations, civil society, and individual individuals. It is of the utmost importance to work towards common goals in a manner that is both peaceful and democratic, while also respecting the rule of law and the institutions that form the basis of Trinidad and Tobago’s governance.
(Paul Sarran is a student pursuing a Political Science degree at the University of the West Indies OC 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 after graduation.)
Email your opinions, letters and commentaries to: letters@caribmagplus.com