Rowley claims State officials threatened him
...warns of political persecution; denies Hadeeds financed PNM
Former prime minister Dr Keith Rowley says he has received threats from “certain officials of state” but insists he is not intimidated, warning that he believes the country is entering a dangerous period where state power is being used against perceived political opponents. Speaking exclusively with Guardian Media at his Goodwood Park, Diego Martin home yesterday, Rowley claimed threats have been directed not only at him but the People’s National Movement’s (PNM) Balisier House headquarters. “They could target me if they wish because I’ve been getting threats from certain officials of state that I am next, and Balisier House is next,” Rowley said.
“They could do that if they wish, but I only have one country and that country is Trinidad and Tobago. I fought for it and I will continue to fight for it.” Asked who made the threats against him, Rowley declined to provide names. Asked whether he was concerned, the former prime minister said, “Worried? Me? I look worried to you? Do I look worried to you? No. I have one country. I fought many battles in this country and for this country and I will continue so to do.”
Rowley accused the Kamla Persad-Bissessar Government of targeting people based on perceived political affiliation, saying citizens were becoming fearful. “The Government has declared war on the people of Trinidad and Tobago, largely on the basis of who they perceive them to be supporters of politically. And if this country doesn’t believe me, those who are feeling the pressure now, my advice to you is ban your belly, there’s more to come,” he said. He said the administration was operating on the premise that “if you prospered under the PNM, you must be destroyed.”