PM not an absolute power

THE EDITOR: In the recent past several decisions have been taken and actions performed by State Officials which are at variance with our Republican Constitution. Whenever these actions take place the public, the media and the opposition appear to be anaesthetised and accept these illegal actions, which become established precedents. This complacent attitude can direct the country on a dangerous path. The most recent and equally detrimental action is the presenting of the letter of appointment by Prime Minister Manning to the CoP. What in effect the PM is inferring is that he now has appointed the CoP, controls the promotion of Police Officers, and by extension controls the Special Anti-Crime Unit whether it comes under the CoP or the PM.

The PM has shown in no uncertain manner that if you are not under his control you are out as in the cases of the fired UTC Chairman, the CEO of SFCC, the UTC Board, CSO, EBC etc. Are there not more important issues that require this intensive attention of the PM? Why does the PM not pursue the issues of crime, health and education with the same tenacity of purpose? These events following the usurping of the plebiscite by the then PM, Opposition Leader and the President after the 18-18 results in 2001 would effectively mean that the Republican Constitution of Trinidad and Tobago has been suspended with the state now been ruled by Prime Ministerial fiat. It is becoming abundantly clear that Trinidad and Tobago is allowing itself to be under the control of one anointed person, with his divine rights, feared by all his fellow Cabinet Ministers, the Opposition, the Public, the Protective Services and the Media. May the Almighty bestow some wisdom to the Father of our Nation for the deliverance of his children.

D BREAU
Port-of-Spain