COP 's Joe Toney says party got raw deal from People's Partnership

Former National Security minister Joseph Toney claims that the People's Partnership is giving the Congress of the People (COP) a "war deal".

Toney, who is contesting the post of chairman in the COP's internal election on October 17 said COP got six board appointments out of 128, two Regional Health Authority appointments and no chairmanship.

“It is scandalous that a party that has done so well to ensure that we form the government of the day is being treated in this way,” Toney told COP members.

He called for "diplomatic, tactful and level-headed leadership" to ensure the party remains relevant to the politics of Trinidad and Tobago. And he pledged that if members elect him he would do listen and pay attention.

Hulsie Bhaggan, who is also contesting the post of chairman, said the internal elections would make or break the COP.

She urged members to choose strong leaders who are dedicated and have stood the test of time. Bhaggan said the time has come for the COP to devise "rules of engagements" for the partnership to work and sustain itself.

Vernon De Lima, candidate for Vice Chairman addressing the audience at the COP Internal Election Public Meeting held Friday at the COP Operations Centre, Chaguanas