Tobago Correspondent
As the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) gears up for its inaugural election just over a year after its formation, all eyes are on interim leader Farley Augustine.
The TPP was formed after a fallout between Progressive Democratic Patriots leader Watson Duke and Augustine. All the members of the THA executive resigned from Duke’s party and went on to establish the TPP.
Up to last night, Augustine was unchallenged for the post of political leader. A political analyst speculated about a potential challenger capable of steering the party’s course.
Dr Shane Mohammed said: “I do look forward to hearing one specific name. I think she has a lot of influence in the Tobago space. I think she is very clear-cut in her disposition. I would like to see that person at the forefront of the leadership of the TPP, which is Dr Faith BYisrael.”
B.Yisrael said while she felt honoured by Mohammed’s suggestion, her position was clear: “There are no chances whatsoever of me contesting for political leader.”
However, she said she still hasn’t made up her mind about what position she hopes to contest.
Mohammed believes the election is critical for the young party in maintaining a clean campaign process due to the significant impact it could have on governance, public trust, and the THA executive’s reputation.
“I don’t expect to see a falling out, I don’t expect to see any rifts emanating out of this. What I think is very important is the TPP has to ensure that their process is pristine in compassion to what we just saw over the past couple of months within the framework of the UNC,” he said.
“All of the lessons that would have been learnt coming out of PDP is very important now and it would resonate with the population and membership of the TPP as to what not to do to jeopardise the success of the TPP.
“I do believe the membership and Tobago will be interested in seeing who will make up the slate whether it is contested or uncontested. Maybe at this stage, a slate that is uncontested that is agreed upon by all parties might emerge.”
Amidst the secrecy surrounding the slate of nominees for 12 positions, Guardian Media was reliably informed of a diverse lineup, including former Tobago Forwards candidate Kelton Thomas, former Tobago fire service head David Thomas, Infrastructure Secretary Trevor James and former Justice Minister Christlyn Moore, each vying for pivotal positions within the party.
The election is scheduled for June 30.