Victor Roberts tells PNM members to stop undermining Penny Beckles

Victor Roberts has called on members and supporters of the People’s National Movement to stop attacking political leader Pennelope Beckles and instead focus their attention on challenging the UNC government.

Roberts made the comments while addressing a discussion developing on Facebook surrounding an interaction between Beckles and Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar.

He questioned why attention was being placed on whether Beckles and Persad-Bissessar shook or held hands, particularly when some of the criticism appeared to be coming from people associated with the PNM.

Roberts argued that the continued criticism of Beckles was undermining the party’s leadership.

“Why the constant attack on Penny?” Roberts questioned, reminding supporters that Beckles is the elected political leader of the PNM.

He noted that Beckles went unopposed during the party’s internal election and criticised those now attacking her who did not challenge her for the leadership.

Roberts also rejected suggestions being circulated that Beckles was secretly aligned with the UNC, saying PNM supporters were spending too much time attacking their own political leader.

Instead, he urged party representatives and supporters to focus their attention on scrutinising the government and issues they believe require greater public attention.

Roberts said the PNM should be concentrating on presenting itself as an effective opposition and preparing to challenge the UNC whenever another general election is called.

His comments highlight continuing debate among PNM supporters over Beckles’ leadership and the direction the party should take while in opposition.