Trinidad and Tobago ministers criticize trade union protest

Government ministers in Trinidad and Tobago have criticized a large-scale protest march in Port of Spain led by leaders of at least 12 trade unions. The demonstration, which included members of the opposition People’s National Movement and politician Mickela Panday, was organized to protest the policies of the Kamla Persad-Bissessar administration.

Land and Legal Affairs Minister Saddam Hosein described the participants as “shameless political prostitutes,” while Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal characterized the event as a “poorly attended funeral procession.”

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar dismissed the protest as a failure, alleging it was driven by racial and political hatred rather than member benefits. She stated that her government has already implemented salary increases, backpay, and labor legislation to protect membership, accusing the protesters of betraying “common sense.”