THA Chief Secretary mad over Hochoy’s call for election probe

THA Chief Secretary Orville London yesterday condemned what he described as “reckless,” attempts by DAC Leader Hochoy Charles to get a Commission of Inquiry started to probe the recent THA election. London said Charles was “reckless” in attempting to tarnish this country’s image as a bastion of democracy. London, who is also Deputy Political Leader of the People’s National Movement (PNM) with responsibility for Tobago Affairs, was responding to Charles’ claim of “illegal practices and actions” by the PNM in the conduct of the recent THA election and his call for a Commission of Inquiry.

The PNM scored a landslide (11-1) victory over the DAC to retain control of the 12-member Assembly. Charles, wrote to President George Maxwell Richards calling for the Inquiry. London said he was aware of the DAC leader’s disappointment in defeat but warned that Charles’ allegations had serious implications for the country and called on new THA Minority Leader Ashworth Jack to “rein in his madbull.’” I think this country is recognised and respected the world over as a bastion of democracy,” London said. “If the Councillor (Charles) is aware of any criminal act he has a responsibility to deal with the police rather than getting the President involved.”