Senior Multimedia Reporter
radhica.sookraj@guardian.co.tt
As UNC supporters gear up to cast their votes in the internal elections today, the United Patriots, led by Rushton Paray, and their supporters, are already declaring victory, even before the first ballot is cast.
Speaking to Guardian Media at his United Patriots community office in Picton yesterday, Edward Moodie, a prominent community activist and member of the United Patriots team, expressed his confidence in their victory.
“We would have achieved greatness, no matter what happens on Saturday,” he said, adding, “In my heart, I think I’ve already won.”
He continued, “The UNC has been asleep for nine years; they have awoken from their slumber. No matter how this goes, I have achieved my objective of getting the UNC to wake up.”
While supporters say the slate has gained significant support in regions like Tabaquite, Naparima, Rio Claro, and Mayaro, they still face challenges in Oropouche East.
Several people in the Naparima constituency predicted a win for Paray’s team. Salome Manoo said people in the party wanted change.
“I think people want to be represented, and this is why I think Mr Paray can make a difference,” she said.
Despite some mudslinging during the campaign, supporters said this was all part of elections.
“Yes, we had a little mudslinging, but if we did not have that, it would not have been an election. It is silly season,” said businessman Ashmir Mohammed.
At Raghoo Village and Wellington Road, Debe, foot soldier Sonilal Kanhai said he was confident the Star slate would have a resounding victory.
“When you look at the calibre of people on the Star slate, you see people like Dr Roodal Moonilal, David Lee, and Jearlean John, people who have been in the UNC and given their blood, sweat, and tears to build the party,” Kanhai said.
With over 12,000 people voting in the last UNC internals, party troops say they will be organising transportation for voters.
“Our foot soldiers are intact, transportation is in place, and guidelines are set to ensure there are no hiccups,” Kanhai said.
Joe Sirju, a former vice chairman of the party’s election committee, also said he was content that the campaign went well.
“I think the campaign was quite reasonable; both sides did very well. I don’t think there was any significant mudslinging because when we have elections, it’s a different thing. But this is a family affair,” Sirju said.
With transportation and logistical arrangements in place, Sirju said, people were ready to vote.