Stop playing politics

Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony for the Corporation’s chairman and vice chairman on Wednesday, Paray reminded the audience, which included Agriculture Minister Clarence Rambharat, that he was the duly elected parliamentary representative and would work towards the region’s development. Rambharat, who had represented the PNM, unsuccessfully contested the 2015 General Election for the constituency of Mayaro which was won by Paray.

“Like every other of the 41 constituencies in Trinidad and Tobago, there is only one elected MP per constituency and one official MP office and two sub offices that are recognised by the symbol of the Coats of Arms. I urge you and those in the practice of playing politics with the lives of people of my constituency to kindly desist from doing so,” he said.

Paray continued: “We must not take advantage of the poor and vulnerable by using political offices to destroy their very existence, dreams and aspirations. It is our role and responsibility to empower not to trade on their vulnerability.” His statement created a stir with the audience which had spilled out from the Corporation’s administration offices to the courtyard where large screens were set up to accommodate members of the public. Paray also addressed the elected councillors telling them they were no longer candidates representing any political party.

“Be reminded of your oath of office to accept the responsibility as an elected member of council to serve all the people regardless of political persuasion,” he said.

Meanwhile, Biche/Charuma councillor, Glen Ram, was elected chairman while Alderman Vedaish Maharaj was voted vice chairman. Ram had previously served as Vice Chairman for six years and took over from Hazarie Ramdeen who served for two terms as chairman.