Cumuto/Manzanilla MP Dr. Rai Ragbir has issued a scathing release explaining why he will not participate in the UNC’s screening process for re-election.

Dr. Ragbir said while serving constituents has been the greatest privilege of his life, he could no longer serve under a leadership that prioritizes personal loyalty over public service.

He also accused the party of having “a leadership that stifles dissent, rejects accountability, and has transformed the UNC from a political party into a personality cult devoted entirely to the worship of Kamla Persad-Bissessar.”

Regarding screening, Dr. Ragbir said he  refuses to submit himself to a committee that includes persons charged with wrongdoing, embroiled in court cases, or allegedly linked to criminal activity.

He also accused Mrs Persad-Bissessar and the party of hypocrisy, saying it is demanding accountability from the PNM while refusing to practice it internally.