Padarath Defends PM’s Absence: ‘She’s Getting Nation’s Work Done’

Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath has defended Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s absence from the National Day of Prayer on Independence Day, countering criticisms from Opposition Leader Penelope Beckles. Beckles had suggested that the Prime Minister’s absence sent a negative message about national unity. Padarath rejected these claims as mere ‘political point-scoring’, stating that the Prime Minister was engaged in ‘serious business’ and was working towards getting Trinidad and Tobago back on track. Despite not attending the national event, Persad-Bissessar was reportedly involved in personal reflection and was scheduled to attend other faith-based and community activities. Padarath emphasized that her absence did not diminish the significance of the prayer event and that the government was focused on results, not optics.