Thousands converge for "Unity and Liberation" rally

David Abdullah and three youth speakers kicked off the People's Partnership "Unity and Liberation" rally in Aranguez Saturday inviting the tens of thousands of supporters to vote for change and let a political tsunami remove the Manning administration on Monday May 24.

Later the leaders of the People's coalition - Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Winston Dookeran, Makandal Daaga, Errol Mc Leod and Ashworth Jack - accompanied by UNC Chairman Jack Warner, made a grand appearance, each holding the hands of a child dressed as an angel.

The leaders received thunderous applause from the crowd, estimated at 50,000.

Roodal Moonilal was the first speaker who reminded supporters that they were standing on "sacred ground" where the United National Congress (UNC) took birth 21 years ago to continue the struggle.

"Today Kamla has led us to the mountain top and we can see the promised land...today Kamla has inspired this nation to believe in itself and we will rise," he said.

Moonilal slammed the "uncaring" Manning administration and said contrary to what Manning says he and his party do not care.

He said "they have insulted your intelligence" by promising to build police stations when policemen don't even have pocket book.

"In 1986 it was a baby that drove the PNM out," he said in reference to the advertising symbol of the NAR that swept the PNM out of office for the first time in 30 years.

He said a new generation has emerged and "today it is the call of an 81-year-old pensioner Percy Villafana" that will drive the PNM out of office.

He said now is the time to seize the moment and be a part of history and take back the country from the PNM.

Former high court judge Herebert Volney, who is contesting the St Joseph seat for the People's Partnership, received thunderous applause as he began with his courtroom style: "Let's have some order in this place".

He said his job is a simple one to welcome everyone to his constituency, the location of the rally and the site of the first capital of Trinidad and Tobago.

"To God be the glory for this wonderful day... and let us pray that we have the grace to accept this victory with humility," he said. "One month ago I wore judicial robes in this country" he said with all the trappings and perks. "I gave it all up for my country. My country needs me," he declared.

Volney said as he has walked from street to street he has noted that the PNM government has deserted the poor. "We...will reverse that and take care of the poor. Priority number one is the poor," he thundered.

"But there is another task at hand...there is no one on either one on these platforms who has known of crime and dealing crime as Herbert Volney...we have to take our country back. We have to put the criminals behind bars so we can enjoy our land again...those who interfere with our women and children will be behind bars.

"And rest assured ... we will return our country to law and order," he said adding that he gave up everything and urged citizens to make one sacrifice and vote for him and other members of the People's Partnership."