ROWLEY TAKES A CHILL PILL

THE public apology over crime by National Security Minister Fitzgerald Hinds is part of an attempt by the Government’s top brass to create a humble outlook ahead of the crucial general election.

More contrition is expected especially from prominent officials, including Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley.

Works and Transport Minister Rohan Sinanan also adopted a modest and courteous outlook when he contributed to the Budget debate, promising to pave all roads and repair collapsed infrastructure.

Rowley and Sinanan had previously sidestepped strident appeals for repair works on roads and bridges.

The attempt to forgo the contentiousness and indifference of the Rowley administration follows a Government-funded study on the impact of official measures and the public’s response to the ruling administration.

The survey is a routine project undertaken at certain intervals by successive governments.

The ruling People’s National Movement (PNM) also did a political poll on the eve of the local government poll.

The survey found disenchantment with the Government’s leadership and frustration over crime, cost of living, water supplies, and other social and economic issues.

The PNM lost ground at the August 14 local government election, to which Rowley said: “It could have been worse.”

At a recent Cabinet retreat at Chaguaramas, the Prime Minister said the respective performances of Hinds, Sinanan, and Public Utilities Minister Marvin Gonzales could cost the PNM the next election.

There continue to be widespread public protests over the non-delivery of potable water.

Gonzales has promised an improved service by late next year.

“Ministers have been told to tone it down and to be receptive to negative public comments and protests,” a well-placed source said.

“You could say the Prime Minister has popped a chill pill.”

Hinds is seen as the weakest link in the Cabinet chain because of the runaway crime rate and the seeming lack of initiative to deal with gang attacks, home invasions, public assaults, and porous borders.

The fire services have also been revealed as lacking in critical equipment and other resources. 

In the earlier years of his tenure, Rowley was accused by some observers of being headstrong, arrogant, and out-of-touch.

He routinely scolded the opposition and media.

The most recent Budget presentation from Colm Imbert is being seen as a measure to win the goodwill of the nation in the midst of ceaseless crime and the ever-rising cost of food.

Imbert boasted that, for the first time, he had not raised any taxes.

Insiders say the PNM is preparing to once again adopt its “We Care” slogan, and that a more agreeable public tone is an important forerunner.

The general election is due within the next two years but already the tempo is heating and there is some speculation of an early poll to forestall the final workings of opposition unity.

The PNM is expected to make Tobago’s autonomy an electoral issue, with the hope of securing support in the sister isle.