REPUBLIC DAY MESSAGE
FROM
KAMLA PERSAD-BISSESSAR, SC
LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION | LEADER OF THE
UNC AND THE PEOPLE’S PARTNERSHIP | MP FOR SIPARIA
My
fellow citizens today as we celebrate our 39th year as a democratic
republic within the Commonwealth I am pleased to acknowledge the maturity with
which we handled the political change, which happened just a few days ago.
While
many issues are yet to be resolved, the peaceful transition from my government
to another is a tribute to all of us who have shown the world time and time
again that while we have political differences we are one people, respecting
our democracy and the will of the people.
In
1962 we achieved our political freedom but a nation was not born. It took
another 14 years before we broke the formal ties with Great Britain and
proclaimed our Republic, trusting in God and the commitment of our people to
live together in harmony as we began the task of nation building.
Our
1976 constitution was and remains an expression of our desire to respect one
another and to recognise each other’s rights, freedom of speech and freedom of
association. It also ensures the rule of law and equality of citizens,
regardless of religious, social, ethnic or political considerations.
Today
let us recommit ourselves to those values and to respecting one another. And
join me as I rededicate myself to the service of Trinidad and Tobago,
especially the tens of thousands who need food, shelter and clothing for
themselves and their families.
Let us also pledge today to protect the freedoms we enjoy, to protect our families from harm, and to continue to live as one family looking after one another.
In
39 years together we have worked hard at building a nation that is strong, free
and independent. But the task is incomplete. Let us keep the torch burning and
stand on guard for Trinidad and Tobago.
The
future of our great country lies in your hands. We must discuss our differences
openly and respectfully. That’s what democracy is about. Continue to be
vigilant. Never allow anyone trample your rights and always banish hate and divisiveness,
which are cancers that have destroyed entire societies.
The
celebration of Republic Day is a rededication to our values as one people with
a common goal regardless of our differences. As leaders it is our
responsibility to put aside personal interests and serve you and your
community faithfully. I reiterate my pledge to honour that commitment to
you now and always.
I
wish you a very safe and peaceful Republic Day.
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