Marvin Gonzales, Chairman of the People’s National Movement (PNM) and Arouca/Lopinot MP, has issued a strong message to party supporters, urging them not to engage in racial provocation. In a statement dated August 8, 2026, Gonzales emphasized the importance of not responding to alleged racial provocations with similar attacks, warning that such actions could severely damage Trinidad and Tobago’s social cohesion.
Gonzales called on PNM members and supporters to avoid using race as a political weapon, even amidst heightened political debates on race relations. His remarks follow recent attempts to tie alleged racial comments from a private conversation to the PNM as a whole. He insisted that while individuals’ views are personal, they should not be interpreted as the party’s stance.
Criticizing the country’s political leadership, Gonzales stressed that the Prime Minister should represent national unity, especially during tense political periods. He argued that leaders should work to diminish racial tensions rather than exacerbate them, stating that no temporary political advantage justifies long-term harm to the nation’s social fabric.
Gonzales also called on media and journalists to hold political figures accountable for racial rhetoric, rather than attributing blame to entire parties. He extended his appeal to young people and social media users, urging them to consider the consequences of their comments.
He highlighted the importance of unity, invoking former Prime Minister Dr. Eric Williams’ message that Trinidad and Tobago’s strength lies in its diversity. Gonzales concluded with a firm stance against racial politics, affirming the PNM’s commitment to political engagement that respects the racial identities of all citizens.
