KAMLA KNOCKS AG

LEADER of the Opposition, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, yesterday blasted statements by Attorney General John Jeremie, on the on-going controversy surrounding Chief Justice Sat Sharma. She described the judicary as the “bulwark” and “foundation” of the nation’s democracy, which she said is now being trampled on.

Persad-Bissessar attended yesterday’s re-election of councillors and nomination of aldermen to the Chaguanas Borough Corporation.

“This issue touches every citizen: the right of due process. Where the Government and the executive are intimidating the judicary, then serious cause for concern arises as to whether any person can get a free hearing in the courts,” Persad-Bissessar told reporters.

Elected as an alderman yesterday was FIFA’s football referee, Ramesh Ramdan. He described his elevation as a continuation of his work in raising the level of sporting discipline in the Chaguanas borough.

Ramdan replaced Naidoo Powder, who was not nominated, having declared himself as an “Independent” alderman in the UNC-controlled corporation.

Among those councillors who received their oath of office were — Orlando Nagessar, (Felicity/ Endevour); Gopaul Boodan, (Montrose); Bernard Bailey, (Endeavour/Longdenville); Felisha Isack, (Charlieville); Joey Samuel, (Monroe Road/ Caroni Savannah Road). The councillors and aldermen are to serve for an extra year pursuant to an amendment to the Municipal Corporation Act 2006 which extended the life of all local government bodies and the new mayor will be elected on Friday.