Today, we listen, some again in disbelief, when we hear of a march in November, proposed to send a signal to "take back your country" words too similar to those shouted in 1990. Again we hear rumours of arms, unrest and disruption.
If this is not true, then right of protest must be assured in a legitimate way.
If true, then we must remain vigilant.
This time, we must not be as lambs led to the slaughter. We must, above all else, reconfirm our commitment to the rule of law and the system of democracy that has seen our young independent island stand firm in uncertain economic time, international civil crisis, natural disasters and general unease worldwide.
Let us not take for granted the simple freedoms like worshipping when and where we want, dressing as we choose, working where we may, educating ourselves and our children in schools of which we are proud.
Our ease in going to cinema with our neighbours and friends, enjoying concerts at Queens Hall, Naparima Bowl and Napa, even watching a good game of cricket or football are simple freedoms we may often take for granted.
Many countries who chose to reject the rule of law do not enjoy these as we do.
Just as 1990 coup was a stain against a democratic proccess we enjoy, so too, ANY planned, disruptive or undemocratic action (possibly involving illegal/unregistered arms, weapons or devices) MUST be rejected!
Governments must be allowed to run a due course given by election mandate.
If there is real and genuine dissatisfaction as a result of policies and programs, then the mandate will be given to those in whom more faith is placed in the next election.
Until then, I urge, as a mother, wife, sister, daughter and citizen, let us guard our rights and freedoms fiercely and not relinquish these through the power of instability or disruption of mob rule.
Thread carefully.
Treat with issues, be they improper practice, nepotism, archaic systems, irrelevant curriculum etc through social highlighting and through legitimate means.
Social consciousness must reflect responsibility and courage, along with respect and grace. Let us lift our country, not tear it apart, for all our sake.
Lyndira Oudit is Vice President of the Trinidad & Tobago Senate. She is also a member of the United National Congress (UNC).
Many countries who chose to reject the rule of law do not enjoy these as we do.
Just as 1990 coup was a stain against a democratic proccess we enjoy, so too, ANY planned, disruptive or undemocratic action (possibly involving illegal/unregistered arms, weapons or devices) MUST be rejected!
Governments must be allowed to run a due course given by election mandate.
If there is real and genuine dissatisfaction as a result of policies and programs, then the mandate will be given to those in whom more faith is placed in the next election.
Until then, I urge, as a mother, wife, sister, daughter and citizen, let us guard our rights and freedoms fiercely and not relinquish these through the power of instability or disruption of mob rule.
Thread carefully.
Treat with issues, be they improper practice, nepotism, archaic systems, irrelevant curriculum etc through social highlighting and through legitimate means.
Social consciousness must reflect responsibility and courage, along with respect and grace. Let us lift our country, not tear it apart, for all our sake.
Lyndira Oudit is Vice President of the Trinidad & Tobago Senate. She is also a member of the United National Congress (UNC).
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