If any of the current developments in Tobago—regarding the impasse between the Tobago House of Assembly’s two top officials —negatively impact the ability of public officers to discharge their duties, then the Government has an interest in ensuring that it keeps an eye on that.
Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley indicated that yesterday when asked by Guardian Media about the situation going on in Tobago, where a standoff has developed between Tobago House of Assembly Chief Secretary Farley Augustine and THA deputy Chief Secretary Watson Duke.
This stemmed from a disagreement over funding for the Roxborough Folk Performers, led by former minister Vernella Alleyne-Toppin, who was in New York. Duke slammed the THA on funding and complained about what he called a lack of respect by Augustine.
The latter said $400,000 was given to the performing group but the group has denied receiving any money from the THA.
The issue also led to Duke removing Augustine and two others as deputy leaders of the Progressive Democratic Patriots (PDP), which he leads.
It’s the latest issue between the THA jefes—following tensions on various issues since April—and has erupted publicly now with this matter.
When the Prime Minister was asked about the controversy at yesterday’s Diplomatic Centre media briefing, he said with a smile, “Why would I be concerned about other people’s political agenda, as long as they stay within the laws of Trinidad and Tobago. It’s still a free country.”
But Dr Rowley said he was concerned about what it meant for Tobago’s governance.
“But yes, to the extent that any of these developments negatively impact on the ability of public officers to discharge their duties, then the Government has an interest in ensuring that we keep an eye on that.”
Augustine wasn’t available yesterday when Guardian Media called regarding a response to Rowley’s statement.
The THA revealed he wasn’t in Trinidad yesterday.
Augustine and Duke had been invited to yesterday’s ceremonial opening of the Third Session of Parliament. However, THA officials said Augustine would be present in Parliament for the delivery of the 2023 Budget (on September 26) and discussions after.
Duke also didn’t answer calls on the PM’s comment.
Meanwhile, arrangements are being firmed up by senior PDP officials to have a meeting on the impasse between Augustine and Duke later this week. They are hoping to avert a motion of no-confidence, which either Duke (via the party) or Augustine (via THA’s 15-member Assembly) might call against the other.
Augustine is being approached by senior PDP officials. Duke, who was in New York up to last weekend, is due home imminently.
Yesterday, Duke continued attacks on the Augustine-led THA. He posted a Facebook video of youths calling for jobs. Duke addressed his statements to the Tobago public, citing nine months ago, the PDP’s campaign on creating jobs/employment and opportunities for youths.
Duke added, “Today, nine months later occupying the THA Executive, the youths are asking for jobs/employment and opportunities? What is the plan of the ‘One Boss, One Chief Secretary and One Team’? I have not heard of anything.
“Have you heard the plan? Without vision, a people perish. It’s time to stop the grab for power and put PEOPLE BEFORE POLITICS. Time to Fix Dis.”