Kamla: UNC will oppose Govt

In a statement, Persad-Bissessar said recent statements by Attorney General Faris Al-Rawi that the Government would not be hampered by the Opposition’s unwillingness to support certain pieces of legislation and eliminating the need for three-fifths majority support,” are deeply disturbing and troubling as they are a direct attack upon our democracy, the Constitution and the rule of law.” While not referring to any specific legislation, Persad-Bissessar charged that a clear signal has been sent by Government that, “they are prepared to sacrifice our democracy at the costs of their selfish and self centered political desires.”

After noting the entrenchment provisions of the Constitution where outlined in the Privy Council judgement off Hinds v The Queen, Lord Diplock 40 years ago, Persad-Bissessar declared, “Our Constitution is not a plaything for this government to tinker with as they see fit.

The fundamental rights of our citizens are not pawns for the Government to throw away at their whim and fancy.”

Calling on all right thinking citizens to condemn Al-Rawi’s statements, Persad-Bissessar said, “This is yet another example of the unfitness and unsuitability of Faris Al-Rawi to continue to hold the office of Attorney General.”

She claimed Government’s failure to obtain Opposition support for legislation, “is an indictment upon those who are in charge of the government and the government’s legislative agenda.” Persad-Bissessar added this was also an indictment against Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley and shows that when the People’s National Movement (PNM), “cannot accept their failure they resort to governance by any means necessary.”