The Opposition Leader is calling on the Government to reconsider its decision to cancel this year’s Independence Day parade.
On Friday afternoon, the Government announced the replacement of this year’s parade and official functions with a National Day of Prayer and Reflection.
Responding to the move, Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles called for answers as to who made the call, the “true reason” for the decision and whether the Prime Minister will address the nation on this matter.
She added, “The explanation of national security and fiscal responsibility; unconvincingly presented with an insufficiency of clarity and an inescapable undertone of pretext, only made the situation worse.”
“We therefore call upon the Government to reconsider its decision and explore options that protect both public safety and national pride. Scaled-down parades, community events, ceremonial flag-raisings, or a symbolic fly-past could be held alongside the National Day of Prayer, allowing us to adapt responsibly while still honouring the significance of our 63rd year of independence.”
Also commenting was PNM Senator Dr Amery Browne, who indirectly questioned the PM’s regard for the parade.
He said, “It is a fact that Mrs. Kamla Persad-Bissessar has made it her resolute business to boycott the Independence Parade for many years, especially when in Opposition. Now two weeks before she would have been obliged to attend as Prime Minister, her government announces a late attempt to cancel it altogether for 2025.”
Meanwhile, PNM MP Marvin Gonzales has referred to the parade decision as “another veiled attack on the Commander in Chief of the armed forces, Her Excellency the President and a disrespect to citizens and all men and women who served this country in our military forces.”
The Government however is standing by the move.
At a media conference on Friday evening, Legal Affairs Minister Saddam Hosein maintained that it would be unwise to have high profile public figures and members of the armed forces all in one place, given the ongoing State of Emergency.
He adds that the decision was taken following advice from security experts.
