Lead Editor-Politics
Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles is questioning whether the timing of Slinger “Mighty Sparrow” Francisco’s state-assisted funeral on October 16 is an attempt by the Government to divert public attention from her response to the national Budget, which is scheduled for the same day.
While stopping short of directly accusing the United National Congress (UNC) administration of deliberately scheduling the funeral to coincide with her parliamentary contribution, Beckles said, “One can only hope that even the UNC, desperate as they are, would not stoop so low as to use the death of a cultural icon to shore up their political failure. Some things are bigger than politics, and calypso and culture should rank high among them. May Sparrow rest peacefully.”
Beckles is scheduled to deliver the Opposition’s response to the 2027 national Budget in the House of Representatives on October 16.
October 16 was also the date originally selected by several trade unions for a major demonstration against the Government in the capital.
However, National Trade Union Centre general secretary Michael Annisette confirmed yesterday that the unions have agreed to postpone their march to October 23 out of respect for Sparrow.
Annisette said the decision followed communication from the T&T Police Service about the funeral arrangements, but stressed the police had not instructed the unions to change their plans.
Meanwhile, Beckles insisted she remains undeterred and that the Opposition’s message will be heard regardless of the circumstances.
“As Leader of the PNM, I am laser-focused,” she declared.
“Try as they might, the PNM and the people of T&T will NOT be silenced. Our message will be heard loud and clear across the length and breadth of Trinidad and Tobago.”
Beckles also accused the UNC administration of presiding over national chaos and collapse, warning that the Government would ultimately face the consequences at the polls.
“Nothing can distract from the reality of the chaos and collapse facing our country under this Government,” she said.
“The UNC can run, but they cannot hide; they will reap their just reward for the wickedness perpetrated upon the citizens at the next Local and General Elections.”
Beckles provided no evidence that the funeral date was deliberately selected to coincide with her Budget response.
