RADHICA DE SILVA
Senior Multimedia Reporter
radhica.sookraj@guardian.co.tt
UNC San Fernando East candidate John Michael Alibocas, popularly known as Makamillion, says he will continue to serve all constituents regardless of their background following claims that he was seen recently with people of questionable character.
Speaking to reporters during a walkabout in Pleasantville, Alibocas dismissed the claims.
“What are criminal gangs? Why are you saying something like aligned? Marabella Line or Marabella West are normal people. If I, as the representative, have to go down there and I win the seat, I have to represent for all people, generation and age bracket. That is my job as a councillor,” he said.
Alibocas said the San Fernando area includes people from different economic backgrounds.
“The place need love and leaders with compassion. When it comes to what people say out there, I am a person that knows everyone and does not discriminate. I come from the ground, Roy J, Carlton Lane, I grew up playing basketball there. There is no race or discrimination. I am a person who knows everyone,” he said.
“Everybody deserves love. Downtown, uptown, middle class. If you see someone out there and you want to describe them as a criminal or a bad boy, you have to reach their heart and you have to know why,” he said.
He also claimed that UNC supporters are being victimized by the government, which has many gangs, including Cepep, URP and Forestry.
“I want to tell people that certain things are going on. Victimization is real. Today, certain URP and forestry workers, once you stand by a party with different colours, you are targeted. A contractor was fired today.
“Do we have freedom of speech? We supposed to stand up as a people and be there for each other. When you hear someone cry, be there for them. My friend in Corinth Hill was called in to be fired. This is not how the country should be run,” he said.
Alibocas outlined his vision for San Fernando East, stating that he plans to bring unity and address the concerns of the people.
“Some people are privileged and some are unprivileged. I know how to be there on the ground. My mother taught me everyone is equal. Right now, I want to achieve love and show every MP that academics is not everything. Academics with no passion or heart means nothing.”
He added: “San Fernando East is in a mess. URP, CEPEP, and forestry are gangs for the government. If you want to talk about government, they running all the gangs.”
Alibocas also mentioned well-known figures who have risen from difficult backgrounds.
“Orlando Octave, Kerry John, Swappi, we are all success stories of the ground. The place needs love and leaders with compassion and heart to go out and serve and be there for the people. Actions speak louder than words,” he said.
Alibocas said he remains focused on his goal.
“My plans for San Fernando East is to bring love and reach people, hear their cries and find solutions,” he said.
