Senior Multimedia Reporter
radhica.sookraj@guardian.co.tt
Nicole Gopaul, the UNC’s Lengua/Indian Walk local government candidate, is confident that by January the court will rule in her favour, declaring her the winner of the contested seat.
Addressing supporters at the UNC’s pavement meeting in Lengua on Thursday night, Gopaul declared: “’I am in the capable hands of a couple of the most prominent lawyers in this country, therefore, by this time January, I will be standing here as your councillor.”
She outlined her plans for the district, emphasizing her commitment to addressing issues such as roads, landslips, drainage, and infrastructure, as well as challenges in education, healthcare, housing, and employment.
“I await the opportunity to work for you, to address all the concerns of the residents of Lengua/Indian Walk,” she said.
“I know that roads are an issue, I am aware that landslips are an issue, also drainage and other infrastructure have its shortfall within this district.”
Gopaul also pledged to create green spaces, advocating for policies that uplift the community and promote opportunities.
“In doing so, Lengua/Indian Walk’s model can be used as an example for other districts,” she said.
She also emphasized the use of renewable energy sources for a healthier environment.
Naparima MP Rodney Charles also declared that Gopaul will soon be officially sworn in as the councillor.
The Lengua/Indian Walk electoral seat was initially declared in favour of the PNM in the August 14 local government elections but ended in a tie after a recount requested by the UNC.
Gopaul and PNM candidate Rev Autly Granthume secured 1,428 votes each. However, there was one ballot in the UNC’s favour which was rejected because it had not been initalled by the presiding officer and did not have a polling station number.
The UNC took the matter to court with Anand Ramlogan SC leading the case.
