Dookeran will stand by supporters; pledges commitment to PP coalition

Winston Dookeran told supporters of the Congress of the People (COP) Sunday he will not abandon the members and supporters who have been loyal to him over the years.

The leader of the party was speaking at COP's first national council meeting for 2011 at the Operations Centre. "People may misrepresent what I say, but I do not misrepresent myself," Dookeran said.

The finance minister said COP continues to embrace the politics of nationhood, saying although the PNM has been removed from office "the PNM political and sociological expression remains."

He also spoke about how he goes about his politics. "I do not practice the politics on the surface, but rather take note of the subterranean forces; the forces underneath."

Dookeran said he is now immune to the frequent bombardment for his political stances. He added that he will continue to strive for the politics of nationhood.

He said he takes his politics seriously, stating that "in politics like in every pack of cards, there are kings, queens and jokers as well."

Dookeran said without the direct input of the COP in the last election, PNM would have remained in power. And he said it is important for "every political party (to)...maintain its identity, as we build the People’s Partnership Coalition."