Cricket legend Brian Lara has moved to clear the air amid growing political controversy surrounding his former contract with the Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago (TSTT).
Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath revealed that Lara personally contacted him to confirm his contract with TSTT ended in 2022 under the former People’s National Movement (PNM) administration and was never renewed.
“A few minutes ago I received a phone call from our national hero and world-renowned Brian Charles Lara, who confirmed that his contract with TSTT ended in 2022 under the former administration and it was not renewed by them,” Padarath said.
The minister added: “Further, he expressed his surprise and concern, distancing himself from anyone saying otherwise. That is PURE CLASS!”
The clarification comes after Former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley accused the government of using Lara as “collateral damage” in what he described as political retribution at TSTT.
By speaking directly with the minister, Lara has effectively distanced himself from the political tug-of-war, choosing instead to protect his reputation and avoid being drawn into partisan disputes.
For many observers, Lara’s intervention highlights a larger question: should national icons be shielded from political battles, or will their names always risk becoming collateral in the crossfire?
