Aftermath of the local govt election

One wonders how can a political leader who is seeking the support of the people of TT be happy or satisfied with more that 75 percent of the eligible voting population not placing a vote for their political party.

It is even more disconcerting when, what should have been the most pertinent election, “local government” seems to be dismissed as a waste of time. It is at local government that communities should be restructured. It is at the local level that the immediate needs of the communities should be addressed.

The rejection at the recent polls should alarm most politicians.

There is of course the possibility that politicians are so detached from the people that it does not matter to them who voted as long as they can claim victory.

The challenges we face did not end after any election results. We still have to find longterm solutions for our economy.

We have to invest heavily in modern infrastructure especially roads, bridges and rail to meet the challenges of ever-increasing traffic congestion and families must feel safe again in their communities.

These will not go away with political posturing. There is need for serious introspection, analysis and planning for the journey ahead.

The population is demonstrating that it is not confident that either of the political parties or perhaps leaders are up to the task.

The last election campaign lacked the substance required to inspire people to vote.

There were no detailed plans to reform communities.

The time has come for concerned citizens to unite in the best interest of TT .

The divisive politics of the People’s National Movement and the United National Congress based on ethnic support must end now.

It is time for citizens to unite and together pave the way for a better quality of life for all our citizens.

There is no doubt that we have the personnel, skill set, resources and access to financing to restructure our nation. Our biggest hurdle is to get over the egos of those seeking political power and to break and discard for all times the pattern of ethnic political support.

These are hurdles we must overcome or perish.

A word to the wise.

STEVE ALVAREZ via email