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01
of 03Rowley Criticized for Inaction on Crime and Insensitive Remarks
Unitedpac St. Lucia – In a recent development that has sparked controversy across the Caribbean, Dr. Keith Rowley, Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, is under scrutiny for his approach to the escalating crime rates in his country and his recent comments directed towards Allen Chastanet, the opposition leader and former Prime Minister of St. Lucia. Concerned citizens, alongside Saint Lucian born journalist and broadcaster Shannon Lebourne, have voiced their disapproval of Rowley’s handling of regional crime and his derogatory remarks against Chastanet, highlighting a deepening crisis in regional politics and integration.
Since assuming office on September 9, 2015, Rowley’s tenure has been marked by a significant rise in violent crimes, with 4,849 homicides reported, averaging 484 killings annually. Critics argue that the Trinidadian government’s response has been lackluster, with accusations of inaction and the provision of excuses while criminal gangs gain more control, allegedly bolstered by contracts from the central government. Furthermore, Rowley’s leadership as Chairman of CARICOM has been described as ineffective, with a lack of substantial policies to enhance citizen safety and security across the Caribbean.
“Failed leadership is the silent epidemic that cripples governance; it transforms potential into stagnation, erodes the foundation of trust, and leaves the promises of progress as mere whispers in the wind. When leaders falter, the consequences ripple across communities, turning the helm of governance into a ship navigating without a compass, where the aspirations of the people become casualties of directionless ambition.”
The situation escalated when Rowley dismissed crime-fighting recommendations proposed by Allen Chastanet, engaging instead in personal attacks and name-calling. Shannon Lebourne highlighted this behavior as indicative of a broader issue within the region’s political landscape, where certain politicians’ attitudes contribute significantly to the crime problem. Lebourne criticized Rowley’s comments as a “distasteful racial attack,” undermining the dignity of his office and posing a direct challenge to the ideals of regional unity and cooperation.
The call for Rowley to retract his statements and issue an apology underscores the gravity of the situation, as it not only pertains to political decorum but also to the broader implications for regional solidarity and the collective effort to combat crime and foster development.
This incident lays bare the challenges facing CARICOM nations in their pursuit of effective governance and cooperation. As the Caribbean grapples with these issues, the dialogue between leaders and their commitment to constructive engagement will be pivotal in shaping the region’s future.
Below is the full media release from concerned citizens, articulated through the voice of Shannon Lebourne, highlighting the concerns over Prime Minister Rowley’s actions and the implications for regional integration:
02
of 03Concerned Citizen Media Release 7th March, 2024
Rowley is part of the region’s Crime problem.
Since 9th September, 2015 Dr Keith Rowley as Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago has presided over unprecedented crime levels in the twin island Republic with 4849 homicides at an average of 484 killings annually, under his watch.
Rowley has powdered his government’s response with inaction an excuses, while criminal gangs continue to tighten their grip on the region, fueled mostly by central government capital contracts.
As Chairman of CARICOM he offered weak leadership and no real policies to promote Citizen safety and security.
Saint Lucian born Journalist and Broadcaster Shannon Lebourne has taken issue with Rowley’s recent dismissal of crime fighting recommendations offered by the Leader of the Opposition and Former Prime Minister of Saint Lucia Allen Chastanet.
According to Lebourne, Rowley’s recent outburst provide real evidence he and politicians who behave and think like him are part of the region’s Crime problem.
Instead of critiquing the recommendations, the PNM Leader descended to name calling and personal attacks.
Does Dr Keith Rowley really care?
Further his recent utterance is a distasteful racial attack, which denigrates the office of Prime Minister.
Additionally, it is the slap in the face of regional integration.
The Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago would be best advised to retract and apologize for his recent insensitive utterance.
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In expressing these concerns, Shannon Lebourne has put a spotlight on the urgent need for leadership that transcends national boundaries and embraces a collective responsibility towards the safety, dignity, and prosperity of all Caribbean citizens. The unfolding drama between Prime Minister Rowley and Allen Chastanet is more than a personal dispute; it is a reflection of the larger dilemmas facing the Caribbean today.
