UNC warns of ‘Terror Squad’ searches

THE Opposition United National Congress (UNC) is wondering which Senior Counsel’s house is next to be searched by the Anti-Corruption Investigations Bu-reau (ACIB) which the political party likened to a “terror squad.” Speaking yesterday during a press conference  at the Office of the Opposition Leader on Charles Street, Port-of-Spain, UNC Senator Wade Mark said ACIB was mis-using its powers as it continued to search the homes of “innocent” persons “to embarrass people and have taxpayers pay (costs).”

Mark referred to recent searches at the homes of Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Labour Emmanuel George, CLICO head Lawrence Duprey and also the legal action taken by Senior Counsel Claude Denbow to prevent a search of his office. However, Mark put other senior attorneys on alert, saying lawyer/client confidentiality was no longer guaranteed and he wondered who would be next, “Russell Martineau, Desmond Allum?”

He reiterated the party’s call for the resignation or removal from office of “head honcho” Prime Minister Patrick Manning, Attorney General John Jeremie “who is abusing his office,” National Security Minister Martin Joseph and Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Geoffrey Henderson. He said the party will also challenge the passage of the Anti-Terrorism Bill and the CCJ Bill in the courts. Also speaking at the press conference, UNC Senator Roodal Moonilal called on Government to be transparent as it pertained to the delay in establishing the Occupation Safety and Health Authority. He said Government should “level with the population” and stop “pussy-footing” with the lives of workers. He also questioned the non-implementation of the $9 minimum wage.

UNC Senator Carolyn Seepersad-Bachan also spoke on energy matters. Meantime, the UNC will start a “meet the constituency” campaign next month in Oropouche and will host a series of strategic national meetings aimed at highlighting issues in the country. The party is also preparing manifestos for the local and general elections.