Reading the headlines on Tuesday morning about "Kuchoor over Nagar" accompanied by the photo of Mr Warner, I thought to myself, "O' Lord what is this man up to now?" However, after I read the entire story I came to understand and support Mr Warner's reason for not attending.
It even came as a shock to me when I heard the announcer acknowledge Mr Rowley, I couldn't believe my ears. In all my years I have never known him to attend the opening of the Divali Nagar. I always recall former prime minister Patrick Manning to send representatives on his behalf or the then minister of culture to attend.
I presume Mr Rowley is going all out to improve his image as we saw in his party's annual convention some weeks ago.
Mr Warner is right when he says that a religious and cultural function such as the opening night at the Divali Nagar should not be used a political podium to acquire campaign gain or face value.
Yes, I agree that it is normal that all parliamentarians are invited but how often have you ever seen Dr Rowley attend these functions?
How come, all of a sudden Dr Rowley has a keen interest in the Hindu community, and I can say this freely, because for years under the previous administration I remember me and fellow members of various Hindu culture groups, including that of the NCIC, struggle in fighting for finance to host these various programmes at the religious periods.
It is highly expedient of Dr Rowley to show up to this function out of the blue and his motive is crystal clear.
It is fine if he wishes to "clean up" his image but I stand with Mr Warner in that using such a significant period for Hindus and culture as an opportunity for mere political gain is cheap, distasteful and disrespectful.
If he would like to gain the support of the Indo-Trinidadian community then he should go out, in the capacity of Opposition Leader, and actually do something for the community that has been constantly put on the back burner for many years.
Michelle Debideen
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