Beckles Demands Transparency on Modi’s Visit Costs Amid Government Criticism

Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has urged the Government to disclose the taxpayer cost of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit. Speaking at a People’s National Movement (PNM) meeting, Beckles criticized the government’s treatment of CEPEP workers and labeled Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s actions as ‘political hypocrisy,’ especially after awarding Modi the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (ORTT). She referenced Modi’s prior donation of 40,000 Covid-19 vaccines to Trinidad and Tobago, which she claimed was ignored by Persad-Bissessar. Beckles also highlighted the contradiction in the Government’s use of the Diplomatic Centre, previously declared ‘unfit’ for use, during Modi’s stay, questioning the consistency of government claims. Furthermore, she pointed out rising crime statistics under the UNC Government, accusing them of failing to address the issue while blaming the PNM for past crimes. Beckles criticized the Prime Minister’s Pension (Amendment) Bill, alleging it was a politically motivated attack against former PM Stuart Young. She concluded by asserting that the UNC lacks a coherent plan and attributed economic successes to the PNM’s previous policies, branding the current government as ‘vindictive, wicked, and dishonest.’