To some, Dr Keith Rowley's constant anger may appear to be like that of a prophet trying to call down fire and brimstone on those whom he sees as 'evil-doers.' He portrays himself as a righteous crusader who is hell-bent on exposing the "truth."Unfortunately, and indeed worryingly, the "truth" for him is anything he conjures up, even if it cannot be supported by evidence.
The allegation that the former attorney general, Mr Anand Ramlogan, went to the Trinidad and Tobago embassy in New York and made racist comments turned out to be totally false as Ramlogan never visited the embassy. To date Dr Rowley has offered nothing resembling a proper official apology.
Having been caught in an untruth, it is beyond him to do the statesman like thing and apologise to the nation. Instead, his approach is to suggest that the content is somehow still appropriate if only because Dr Rowley says so. As if this is not bad enough, Dr Rowley's understanding of truth and lies extends to the point where even when others are right, they are still wrong.
It is easy to get the sense that Dr Rowley's political interest is indeed self-serving. His former political leader, Mr Patrick Manning, is on record in Hansard as describing Dr Rowley as someone full of hate, bitterness, acrimony, animosity and someone who is completely out of control; someone who, if opposed, becomes a "raging bull."
Mr Manning has indicated that this is not a new tendency, and this continues to be as evident today as ever.In fact, it seems as if having replaced Mr Manning, Dr Rowley goes on to gut the PNM of some of its more valuable party members who may have refused to worship at the altar of what has become a personality cult.
Furthermore, the dramatisation of women wearing yellow and stumbling on stage during the PNM Family Day on May 24th, coupled with Dr Rowley's usual vitriol on the political platform, further suggests that Mr Manning's assessment of Dr Rowley continues to ring true.At best these are divisive tactics. Dr Rowley's need for attack and degradation, as well as unsubstantiated accusations against non-conformers, is likely to be the unwelcome trademark of his political career, and quite frankly, it is not something any right-thinking citizen should gamble with.
Mrs Persad-Bissessar's leadership style contrasts greatly with that of Dr Rowley. Like a good leader, she can rise above partisan politics. Her invitation to Dr Rowley to attend the funeral of former South Africa president Nelson Mandela demonstrates an unparalleled level of statesmanship, the likes of which has never been seen in this country. She is very responsive to the diversity of our nation.
Unlike others, she is not on a crusade to destroy, but rather on a mission to weave together the different strands in our nation's tapestry.Like a good leader, she prioritises the presumption of innocence until proven otherwise, but is then swift to punish guilt. She acknowledges any shortfalls in her Government and moves with alacrity to redress same.
Her approach to governance is one that blends strength with softness. Her willingness to listen to her people is tempered with an ability to hold resolute to the policies that matter to the good of the nation as a whole. Her identification with every socio-religious group does suggest that she has achieved a genuine harmony between a leader of the nation and the citizens in a way that others may only be able to aspire to.
The Partnership Anniversary Celebration and Renewal held on the 24th May at Constantine Park, Macoya, Tunapuna, did in fact achieve the spirit of renewal. Like a good leader, Mrs Persad-Bissessar was able to give a comprehensive account of the performance of her administration over these last five years. By every standard it was impressive.
If one is to go by the sheer numbers of supporters present, it seemed clear that the population is ready to return a mandate to the Persad-Bissessar administration, if only because some of the more important projects that are in train should not run the risk of being shelved.
Mrs Persad-Bissessar has prioritised substance over style. More people in underprivileged communities are getting better roads, bridges, a better water supply, pre-schools and in some cases, even new primary schools and tertiary level institutions. The future plans for enlarged educational opportunities are now in the making. We cannot risk that being thrown away.
The drive for nation building now includes giving a higher standard of living to people everywhere in ways big and small. Gone are the days when we have to be awe-struck with the ostentation of the Port-of-Spain skyline while our taps were running dry. More than ever, the chance of the Partnership's track record of steering the country competently through the recent financial crisis warrants a continuation of conservative and prudent fiscal management.
And since there is no room for risking another Calder Hart fiasco, and no desire for a raging dictatorship, the political choice is clear. Mrs Persad-Bissessar has proven her political mettle over testing times and unreservedly deserves a second term in office.