Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has condemned what she described as irresponsible behaviour displayed in a video circulating from Trinidad and Tobago’s Independence weekend, arguing that law-abiding citizens should not have to endure public disorder caused by others.
In a statement posted to her Facebook page, the Prime Minister used the footage to renew her call for greater personal responsibility as the country continues to grapple with violent crime.
“Trinidad and Tobago, the irresponsible behaviour seen in the video clip occurred over the Independence weekend,” Persad-Bissessar said.
She stressed that the actions displayed should not be seen as representative of the wider population, saying the majority of citizens are decent and law-abiding.
The Prime Minister also linked the issue of public confrontations to the country’s murder toll, stating that 85 murders recorded this year resulted from altercations that were avoidable.
Persad-Bissessar argued that while institutions such as the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service and Judiciary are frequently criticised over crime, citizens must also examine their own behaviour and their role in preventing conflicts from escalating.
“We cannot keep blaming the TTPS, Judiciary, the British Empire, and every other entity for violence and crime when supposedly normal persons are behaving like this in public,” she said.
Her strongest message was directed at people who become involved in disorderly behaviour in public spaces.
“If you can’t behave properly in public, please stay home so decent, law-abiding citizens and their families can enjoy the country without suffering from your lack of personal responsibility,” the Prime Minister said.
The comments come just days after Trinidad and Tobago celebrated its 64th anniversary of Independence, with thousands of people attending events and gatherings across the country.
Persad-Bissessar’s statement places renewed emphasis on individual responsibility as part of the wider fight against violence, particularly confrontations that begin as disputes but escalate into serious or deadly incidents.
She ended her message on a warmer note, wishing citizens a wonderful evening and telling Trinidad and Tobago: “Love you all.”
