Dookeran tells party members COP committed to People's Partnership

Winston Dookeran said on Sunday the Congress of the People remains committed to the Fyzabad Declaration, which established the People's Partnership (PP).

The leader of the COP made the pledge during the monthly meeting of his party's National Council. 

"Our signature remains affixed to the Fyzabad Declaration which was signed in the run-up to last May's general election .We will work towards its fullest and practical manifestation," the Finance Minister said. 

"We will make it work. Despite criticisms, COP will do its utmost for the PP Coalition Government to be sustained in power," he noted.

Dookeran spoke of the new era of coalition politics which has now become a new mode of governance, citing recent examples in Britain and Australia, and earlier in India, Italy and Canada.

"Trinidad and Tobago is now in that alliance, and COP will continue to uphold its historic responsibility," he said, adding that the electorate is no longer interested in allowing one political party or one group of men to run the affairs of their land.

Dookeran said that the COP continues to usher new trends and thoughts in the politics and governance of Trinidad and Tobago and reminded the National Council that "the COP is the only political party formed in the 21st century .Having taken the lead, others will follow." 

He reminded his audience that he stood up for democracy in 1990 during coup attempt, and he continues to maintain the democratic traditions and principles of good governance. 

Dookeran said a similar challenge now confronts him, but he will not be deterred.