PNM introspection after THA loss

The Tobago People’s Party’s (TPP) Tobago House of Assembly (THA) landslide is another major setback for the People’s National Movement (PNM), calling for serious reflection and a new approach to political engagement. The 15-0 preliminary result highlighted the failure of the PNM’s existing strategies.

The result should now trigger leadership change within the PNM Tobago Council. Political leader Ancil Dennis should resign, James said, “I think so. I think he has to give it up. He has to resign. I think he has to go. You follow?” James said renewal was absolutely necessary to reconnect with the electorate. He said the governing party would also still need to reconnect with voters. “But I think they can do it. They’ll have, of course, to go around to the people again.”

Penny: PNM’s plan was to put Tobago first again

Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles says the People’s National Movement’s (PNM) plan is to “put Tobago first again.”She made the comment yesterday morning, as Tobagonians went to the voting booth in the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) election.Beckles, who said she was on the island for the activity, said the PNM’s campaign was built on direct engagement with communities across Tobago. She noted that over the past several weeks, party members and candidates went village to village and town to town, listening to residents, hearing their concerns and earning their trust.

“Our plan, put Tobago first again, speaks directly to the issues people raised with us. It focuses on jobs and economic opportunity, rebuilding and strengthening tourism, supporting agriculture and food security, improving housing and community development, and ensuring safer communities with better access to healthcare and education. It also commits to improving infrastructure while protecting the natural environment that makes Tobago special.”

According to Beckles, the PNM presented 15 candidates who understood Tobago and live the realities of their communities. She said the candidates were prepared to serve with integrity, responsibility and care for the people they represent.The Opposition Leader expressed confidence that Tobagonians would place their trust in the PNM, adding that the party’s plan was shaped by issues raised during the campaign.