UNC official slams Rowley, Manning for "callous" remarks about assassination plot

The International Relations Officer of the United National Congress (UNC) said on Monday he is deeply disappointed with remarks made by Opposition Leader Keith Rowley and former Prime Minister Patrick Manning with respect to the assassination plot against the prime minister and three members of cabinet.

In a media statement, Shane Mohammed noted Rowley's characterisation of the plot "as hysterical political expediency and a motive to extend the State of Emergency." 

Mohammed noted that the government does not need a public spectacle to make a case for extending the emergency since it has the required majority to pass any extension.

He said Rowley's remarks were "most unfortunate" and reflect his callous disregard for human life. 

"As experienced members of Parliament, both Mr. Rowley and Mr. Manning should be more aware and mindful of the traumatic and negative effect the events of 1990 had on not only the international image but also “us” as a people; and the possible negative outcome had the planned assassination been left unaddressed," Mohammed stated.

He added, "Dr Rowley as a citizen, who aspires to be the Prime Minister of the Republic, should be reminded that his thoughts and remarks regarding the safety and security of his colleagues were reckless, without basis and disrespectful to the preservation of life despite political differences."

With respect to Manning, Mohammed said the comment that he had a “good laugh” shows why he no longer "sits as Leader of the PNM and Head of the Government". 

He said during his tenure as head of government Manning demonstrated a careless lack of regard for human life. 

"Mr. Manning remarks are reminiscent of his previous remarks on loss of human life as “collateral damage”, a remark that began his decent from the office of the Prime Minister and possibly on this occasion his exit from the House of Parliament," the UNC official declared.

"These statements and views show little difference between Mr. Manning and Mr. Rowley but instead highlight their inability to be politically mature and be true leaders of a diverse and cosmopolitan society that is Trinidad and Tobago," Mohammed stated.

He pledged to "stand in solidarity" with the Prime Minister and the Government "in their fearless determination to rid Trinidad and Tobago from criminal activity that threatens the democracy that we harmoniously live in."