Jubilant celebrations on Nomination Day for one political party were nearly eclipsed over reports that a candidate had been replaced after allegations that a dark cloud was hanging over his head.
However, United National Congress leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar denied knowledge of any move to change the party’s pick for Couva North, Ravi Ratiram.
Reports from senior party officials which allegedly surfaced early on Nomination Day claimed that Ratiram’s candidacy had been revoked and he was subsequently replaced by temporary senator Rishi Tripathi.
However, following the filing of her nomination papers at the office of the returning officer for Siparia in Penal, Persad-Bissessar advised that anyone with concerns about the Couva North candidate could take it to the police and that there had been no plans to remove him from the slate.
She made the comment while speaking to the media surrounded by supporters, tassa drummers and a music truck.
“I am the leader of this party, I am also the head of the party’s screening committee. I have no knowledge of what you are speaking about. The candidate for Couva North is Ravi Ratiram. If there are allegations then take it to the police. If you have issues against him that are illegal, take it to the police,” Persad-Bissessar said.
Only a few days ago, the UNC’s pick for Lopinot/Bon Air West Triston Bonterre III was replaced. Persad-Bissessar said the candidate had asked to be withdrawn and the party accepted.