Where would the United National Congress be without Wade Mark? He may never, ever be able to win even a UNC safe seat in an election, but the UNC cannot do without his brand of political vitriol. Nobody does it like Wade. There are no other contributing Opposition speakers who can churn out allegedly politically offensive remarks, week after week, tirelessly.
The opposition is bereft of truly memorable speakers. This Leader of Opposition business in the Senate, is allegedly the only strident voice between the UNC and political oblivion. Perhaps it is his previous position as Speaker of the House of Representatives in Parliament,2010-2015, that gives weight to his contributions on their behalf. But truth be told, apart from the Opposition Leader, Kamla Persad -Bissesser, the UNC is short on truly outstanding memorable speakers in both Houses. They are unable to copy the scope of pounding aggressive delivery of Wade Mark.
This is T&T where, 24/7, image is everything. The image of the Parliament and the Senate going forward, post COVID-19 is one where members will have to speak both interestingly and coherently. There is no sitting about looking pretty or smartly dressed in jacket and tie. One must be able to really confidently speak.
More people than you think, rely on the Parliament Channel for political entertainment. The show must go on and the show must be good.
Whether in Government or Opposition, the collective electorate will expect value for their vote.
Lynette Joseph
Diego Martin
via email