NACTA: Dookeran most liked politician

ACCORDING to NACTA’s latest survey, which was conducted in mid-October, St Augustine MP Winston Dookeran remains the most likeable Member of Parliament. Dookeran  has the highest positive rating at 63 percent as well as the lowest unfavourable rating at 24 percent. Dookeran’s UNC colleague, Gerald Yetming, MP for St Joseph, also has high likeability, with a positive rating of 59 percent and 27 percent negative rating.  Kamla Persad Bissessar and Panday trail in likeability. On the PNM’s side, Public Administration Minister Lenny Saith has the highest positive rating at 57 percent, with a negative rating of 29 percent followed by Trade Minister Ken Valley (51 percent positive and 32 percent negative).Valley has increased his likeability, especially among East Indians, and has become the leading contender to replace Patrick Manning should he decide to demit office.

Housing Minister Keith Rowley has also seen a slight increase in his likeability with African supporters rallying behind him in the Landate controversy. However, he scores very low among East Indians. Works Minister Franklin Khan has seen a slight decline in his likeability with 49 percent positive and 37 percent negative. According to the poll if a general election were to be held now, the ruling PNM will score a massive victory over the UNC. However, all is not well with the PNM which has been losing voters’ confidence over several issues, with a large number of voters indicating that they will be willing to consider an alternative to the two dominant political parties.

Respondents are not very confident in the PNM’s handling of the economy with many expressing concern over the rising national debt, mismanagement and perceived corruption. Respondents are also troubled by the Caroni land issue, rising racial tensions, and declining health service. But on the issue of corruption, the PNM has received kudos for launching investigations into allegations of corruption. However, respondents noted that there was less racial tension under the UNC. Respondents are also troubled about the rising crime rate and said they felt safer under the UNC. However, only a small number of respondents believe the UNC can return to government.