A new political party called HOPE will be launched on December 9th.

It is led by Timothy Hamel-Smith, a former COP member who served as Senate President under the People’s Partnership administration.

Other top-ranking members include former Finance Minister under the PNM, Karen Nunez-Tesheira; former Port of Spain Mayor under the PNM, Louis Lee Sing; and Steve Alvarez, former leader of the Democratic Party of T&T.

103.1FM News spoke today with Mr Alvarez, who is HOPE’s Chairman, and he explained why the party was formed.

He says a new party is needed to help address the issues facing T&T and its citizens.

Mr Alvarez said the fundamentals of the party’s manifesto will be presented at the launch, with a focus on community engagement, honest governance, and transparency.

As for the challenge of swaying the electorate, he believes citizens are open and waiting for a viable option.

Mr Alvarez says HOPE intends to contest all seats in the next General Election, which is constitutionally due in 2025.