By: Paul Sarran
January 17, 2025
The 2025 general election in Trinidad and Tobago promises to be a captivating political battle, particularly in the marginal constituency of San Fernando West. This seat, known for its political volatility, has once again become the center of attention with a three-way battle between incumbent Faris Al-Rawi of the People’s National Movement (PNM), Michael Dowlat of the United National Congress (UNC), and Dr. Kevin Sarran of the National Transformation Alliance (NTA).
Faris Al-Rawi, who has held the San Fernando West seat since 2015, enters this election carrying the weight of previous challenges. In the last election, his path to victory was far from smooth, as he faced significant criticism over his tenure and had to fend off a strong opposition push. While Al-Rawi ultimately retained the seat, the race revealed vulnerabilities that his opponents will likely seek to exploit in 2025. As a seasoned politician and former Attorney General, Al-Rawi has a wealth of experience, but he also bears the burden of defending his record in an era of increasing demands for accountability and transparency.
The entry of Dr. Kevin Sarran adds a new dimension to the race. Representing the NTA, a relatively new political entity, Sarran brings both professional credibility as a medical doctor and a fresh perspective as a political newcomer. His ten years in the medical field and two years of affiliation with the NTA reflect his commitment to public service and his alignment with the party’s vision of transformative governance. Dr. Sarran’s public statement emphasizes his ambition to challenge the status quo: “I know I can do a better job than a lot of people who are currently in positions holding office. To truly change the system, you have to become part of the system first.” This message resonates with constituents seeking change, but his ability to translate words into votes will depend on his campaign’s outreach and strategy.
Michael Dowlat, the UNC candidate and former principal of Naparima College, represents a seasoned and respected figure in education. His candidacy signals the UNC’s commitment to fielding individuals with strong community ties and leadership experience. Dowlat’s tenure at Naparima College has earned him a reputation for fostering excellence, and his entry into the political arena suggests a focus on education and community development. However, his challenge will be to energize the UNC base in a constituency that has shown fluctuating support for the party in the past.
San Fernando West’s political landscape has historically been characterized by its marginal status, making it a bellwether for broader national trends. The three-way fight introduces a dynamic that could significantly alter the outcome. Each candidate represents a distinct political narrative: Al-Rawi embodies continuity and established governance; Sarran symbolizes change and a new vision; Dowlat offers a blend of tradition and progress rooted in educational leadership.
As an aspiring political scientist nearing the completion of a bachelor’s degree, I Paul Sarran, have closely observed these developments and their implications for Trinidad and Tobago’s democratic process. It is important to clarify that I bear no relation to Dr. Kevin Sarran, a distinction I make to maintain transparency and objectivity in my analysis. My focus is on the broader electoral dynamics and the potential impact of this race on the national political landscape.
The challenges facing Al-Rawi cannot be overstated. His tenure has seen both achievements and controversies, and he must navigate a political environment where incumbents are increasingly scrutinized. The last election revealed cracks in his electoral stronghold, and he will need to mobilize his base while addressing the concerns of undecided voters. Al-Rawi’s ability to frame his narrative and counter opposition critiques will be crucial. Dr. Kevin Sarran’s candidacy represents the NTA’s broader ambition to disrupt the political duopoly of the PNM and UNC. His appeal lies in his professional background and his message of systemic change. However, as a political newcomer, he faces the dual challenge of building name recognition and convincing voters that his vision is both viable and superior to his opponents’.
Michael Dowlat’s campaign will likely emphasize his roots in education and his commitment to community values. The UNC’s strategy in San Fernando West has often involved galvanizing grassroots support, and Dowlat’s local connections could be an asset. However, he will need to distinguish himself from his predecessors and articulate a vision that resonates with a diverse electorate. The 2025 election will be a litmus test for all three candidates and their respective parties. For the PNM, retaining San Fernando West is crucial to maintaining its parliamentary majority. For the UNC, a victory would signal a resurgence in its electoral fortunes. For the NTA, success in this constituency could validate its efforts to position itself as a credible alternative to the established parties.
The outcome in San Fernando West will depend on the candidates’ ability to connect with voters on the issues that matter most, from economic development to healthcare, education, and governance. As the campaign unfolds, it will be fascinating to observe how these dynamics play out and what they reveal about the evolving political landscape of Trinidad and Tobago.
(The Author is a Political Science Student at the University of the West Indies Global Campus in St. Augustine.)
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