UNC Leaders Challenge President’s Views on Senate Appointments Amid Gender Bias Claims

The recent comments by President Christine Kangaloo regarding criticism of her Senate appointments have sparked a strong rebuttal from officials of the United National Congress (UNC). Kangaloo suggested that gender bias is behind the critiques of her impartiality. This followed criticism from UNC leaders after a media briefing on June 29 concerning the Independent Senators she appointed. UNC PRO Dr. Kirk Meighoo and other ministers accused these Independents of being aligned with the government, urging them to support a bill altering how prime ministers access pensions. Meighoo dismissed Kangaloo’s insinuation that criticism was rooted in sexism, arguing that the concerns were based on the political leanings of the appointed Independents. Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal echoed these sentiments, citing ongoing doubts about Kangaloo’s judgment in her appointments. The debate intensified when Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath emphasized that the criticism was not personal but political, urging Kangaloo to reflect on her actions. This dispute highlights the complex interplay of gender and politics in the nation’s governance.