Election Preparations Underway in Trinidad and Tobago
The incumbent People’s National Movement party has begun screening candidates for the upcoming general elections in Trinidad and Tobago.
The information suggests that nine constituencies in Trinidad have been given a deadline of Thursday, August 15 to submit nominees. On the other hand, the opposition suspects the election dates will be announced before the end of 2024.
Screening Process
According to the ruling party’s statement, party units from nine areas currently held by the opposition have been instructed to start seeking nominees. The constituencies undergoing early screening are Bartaria/San Juan, Caroni East, Chaguanas East, Cumuto/Manzanilla, Fyzabad, Mayaro, Moruga/Tableland, Pointe-A-Pierre, and St Augustine.
Upcoming Elections
No date has yet been announced for the general elections, which are due in 2025. However, the opposition is anticipating early elections. Opposition Senator Wade Mark indicated during a press conference that the elections will likely take place before the end of 2024, although the exact date is still unknown.
"We understand right now they are looking to call a snap election at sometime at the end of November," Mark said. "It doesn’t matter when the time comes; riot with its index finger." This comment was made in response to reports suggesting that the ruling party plans to hold elections before the end of 2024.
Tobago Election Preparations
In Tobago, the Tobago People’s Party has already expressed interest in contesting the Tobago East and West seats in the upcoming general elections, although it has not yet commented on its preparations. The Progressive Democratic Patriots’ political leader, Watson Duke, has said his party is preparing to contest the elections whenever they are announced. The party is expected to officially launch its campaign on August 25th. The innovative Democratic Alliance, currently under the leadership of Denise Tsoiafatt-Angus, are unsure whether they will contest the general elections.
Conclusion
It appears that the ruling party, PNM, is taking steps to ensure they are prepared for the upcoming general elections, despite the uncertainty surrounding the exact dates of the election. The opposition, meanwhile, is anticipating early elections, suggesting that the situation is likely to remain closely watched in the coming months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who are the parties contesting the upcoming elections?
A: The PNM and its allies, as well as the opposition party, the UNC, are expected to participate in the elections.
Q: What is the current deadline for submitting nominees?
A: The deadline for submitting nominees for nine constituencies in Trinidad is Thursday, August 15.
Q: Are any parties considering contesting the elections?
A: Yes, the Tobago People’s Party, the Progressive Democratic Patriots, and possibly the Democratic Alliance are also expected to participate in the elections.