The UNC National Women’s Arm has condemned former Prime Minister Keith Rowley over what it describes as misogynistic remarks directed at Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar.
Dr Rowley referred to the PM using a derogatory term, as he responded to an accusation from her regarding Balisier House made in Parliament.
In a statement, the group says the comments are offensive, undermine the dignity of women in leadership, and reflect a pattern of disrespect.
“Such language has no place in a modern democracy and reflects a troubling disregard for the standards of respectful political engagement that the people of Trinidad and Tobago deserve,” the Women’s Arm stated.
“Regrettably, this type of behavior is not new. During his tenure as Prime Minister, Mr. Rowley repeatedly resorted to insulting and derogatory remarks directed at Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar and other women in public life. The fact that he continues to engage in the same disgraceful conduct even after leaving office demonstrates a persistent pattern of disrespect that should be rejected by all right-thinking citizens,” it added.
It also criticised the silence of Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles, the PNM Women’s Arm, and other advocacy groups.
“At a time when a woman serving as Prime Minister is being publicly degraded with misogynistic language, their failure to condemn these remarks raises serious questions about their commitment to defending women against such attacks,” the UNC Women’s Arm stated.
“Mr. Rowley’s comments are not simply an attack on Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar they are an attack on the dignity of all women in Trinidad and Tobago. When language that demeans women is tolerated or ignored, it sends a dangerous message that such behavior is acceptable in our political culture.”
The organisation is calling on citizens to reject what it calls “politics of insult,” and to promote respectful, issue-based political discourse.
