Moonilal dismisses conspiracy theory against Jack, says works minister remains strong

Dr Roodal Moonilal on Sunday dismissed as “wild speculations,” allegations of a cabinet conspiracy to remove the Transport portfolio from Jack Warner’s ministry.

The UNC Deputy Leader and Minister of Housing was responding to a Guardian report that suggested that some members of cabinet were growing envious of the popularity of the Works minister and wanted to "cut him down".

The Guardian story did not name anyone in its report but said it got its information from "sources". The unnamed sources, according to the paper, claimed that Warner’s popularity was beginning to overshadow that of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar.

Moonilal called the reprot regrettable, adding that it was nothing but wild speculations. “Warner is a very energetic and committed member of our team,” Moonilal stated. 

Moonilal Warner has been given a very challenging ministry and the Government is very confident about his ability to deliver. “The Works Ministry remains one of the biggest in the country. If that is downsizing, what would upsizing be?” he asked.

Moonilal said the Prime Minister engaged in deep consultation with all Cabinet members and members of the People’s Partnership coalition before her Government’s recent Cabinet reshuffle. 

“This was unprecedented in the history of our Westminster style politics,” Moonilal said. “No other prime minister has done this before.”