WILL MORUGA DECIDE THE ELECTION?

MORUGA-TABLELAND could determine who wins the forthcoming general election, according to insightful political observers.

The PNM has placed a high premium on capturing the marginal seat, which the party lost by 1,072 votes in 2020.

The ruling party is giving away stoves, washing machines, fridges, and other appliances to residents of the former Barrackpore scales 1, 3, 4, and 7, and St. Mary’s, traditional UNC strongholds.

PNM campaigners are also offering money and advising residents: “Tell us what else we could do for you.”

Some residents of Moruga, at the other end of the constituency, are angry over the giveaways, arguing that they have not received any enticements.

Fifth Company, Basse Terre, Bois Jean Jean, Gran Chemin, La Lune, Indian Walk, Marac, and other nearby communities have been historically loyal to the PNM.

Many residents earn a living through fishing, farming, and the government’s make-work schemes.

Residents are upset that they have not received handouts for their many years of allegiance to the PNM.

The party’s campaign is led by Trade and Industry Minister Paula Gopee-Scoon, with the candidate being school teacher Lisa Atwater.

A senior campaign strategist said: “We are extremely confident; the responses to our ground troops have been positive.

“We will take the seat this time.”

The PNM captured the constituency in 2015 through the candidacy of Lovell Francis, reversing a 2010 defeat.

A UNC constituency operative said: “We have no doubt about the result.

“We are assured of our trusted supporters, and we expect votes in Moruga, where people are reeling from PNM abandonment.”

He said the party is mobilising on issues that include crime, unemployment, healthcare, and the state of the infrastructure.

There have been several ghastly murders and other serious offences in the rural districts.

The Government recently launched a fishing depot at Gran Chemin, to replace a dilapidated and long-neglected facility.

The Government is investing “in bringing Moruga into the national economy,” Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley said.

There are plans for a second phase of the project – a sheltered offshore port.

At the ceremony, Works Minister Rohan Sinanan stated blatantly: “Once you … vote the right way, nobody will stop this project.”

Road works are also underway, creating jobs and bringing smiles to motorists.

Sources said the PNM has “abundant resources” to allocate to constituents.

UNC held a public meeting in the constituency last week, and campaigners have been anxious for the naming of a candidate.

Incumbent Michelle Benjamin beat turncoat Winston “Gypsy” Peters in 2020.

Recent sample surveys have indicated a close contest.

Independent observers expect the race will be more competitive than five years ago, especially with the PNM’s lavish giveaway exercise.

But they said the continued neglect of the constituency would work against the ruling party.

One analyst stated: “Some time ago, someone said if Columbus returns he will find the area the same way he left it in 1498.

“Regrettably, that is still the sad state of Moruga and adjoining areas.”