Former PNM Minister Errol Mahabir is advising newly-appointed Energy Minister Carolyn Seepersad-Bachan and the People's Partnership Government not to fall prey to the disease of arrogance.
Mahabir, a former PNM deputy political leader, said the disease of arrogance led to the collapse of the PNM Government and he urged Seepersad-Bachan to avoid that ailment. He added: "There is no better gift that one can have than to be of service to the people of this country and I urge Carolyn (Seepersad-Bachan) to do that.
"I also urge Carolyn to avoid a disease that I think has afflicted too many of our politicians in this country and I am talking about the disease of arrogance." Mahabir, a former San Fernando West MP, was addressing a celebratory thanksgiving service for Seepersad-Bachan on Monday at Omardeen's Building, Cipero Street, San Fernando.
He said from time-to-time he was amazed by the debates in Parliament and some of the public statements made by politicians. "The arrogance of people who attain office; they seem to believe when they attain office they have no responsibility to the people and that is why so many of them have paid the price that they have paid," he said. Mahabir congratulated Seepersad-Bachan, saying: "She can call upon me for advice anytime."