COP defeats De Lima motion, puts forward amended motion for PM to consider

The National Council of the Congress of the People (COP) on Sunday rejected a motion by Vice Chairman Vernon De Lima, calling for Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar to dismiss National Security Minister Jack Warner from her Cabinet. The motion also urged the party to disassociate itself from the People's Partnership government if Warner remains in the cabinet.

COP political leader Prakash Ramadhar said that close to 90% of the delegates voted against De Lima's motion. He added that COP is not interested in destabilizing the country by walking away from government.

However, the party is still calling on the Prime Minister to take some decisive action against Warner. The party put forward an amended motion for the Prime Minister's consideration. COP is also asking police to conclude its investigations into Warner.

Ramadhar said it's only fair that there be a final determination on all matters surrounding the national security minister.

Read the resolution: De Lima resolution calls for Jack's dismissal, asks COP to leave PP if Jack stays

Ramadhar said last week only the Prime Minister can take action against Warner or any minister so the matter of Warner's status is not for COP to decide.
While some members feel that the party must leave the governing coalition the parliamentary caucus is against that. The caucus is led by Ramadhar and includes former leader Winston Dookeran, Carolyn Seepersad Bachan, Anil Roberts, Rodger Samuel and Lincoln Douglas.

The lobby for a withdrawal is coming from officials and members who do not sit at the cabinet table. They are saying Ramadhar is not acting in COP's best interest.