Outgoing political leader of the People’s National Movement (PNM) Tobago Council and former Chief Secretary, Ancil Dennis, will not be contesting any position at the party’s internal election.
In a social media post yesterday labelled, “Grateful Grounded, Moving Forward”, Dennis stated he’s moving forward but he will be voting at the April 26 internal election.
“I will be voting. I am a member of the PNM and I will be voting in the internal election. I will be voting for the PNM,” Dennis said. In moving forward, he compared winning and losing, stating leadership isn’t proven only by victory, but by the grace to accept defeat, reflect honestly, and grow quietly.
“Winning teaches you confidence, but losing teaches you truth. Winning convinces you that effort always equals reward; losing reminds you that politics moves in cycles larger than any one person.
“In 2013, I entered the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) through Buccoo/Mt Pleasant with 1,802 votes. That moment felt like arrival; validation, momentum, purpose. This year, same electoral district for the most part, same love for the people, very different outcome.”
He said it’s the ending of one chapter and the beginning of another. “As I reflect on what I consider to be the hallmark of my political career…my tenure as chief secretary, I do so with a deep sense of pride in the work we accomplished together.
“We made meaningful strides in strengthening Tobago’s agricultural sector; expanding production, supporting farmers, and repositioning agriculture as a serious pillar of economic resilience. At the same time, we took decisive steps to bring order, regulation, and accountability to the Buccoo marine park; protecting our natural assets while setting higher standards for safety and sustainability. These were not always easy decisions, but they were necessary ones, and they were made in the best interest of Tobago’s long-term development,” Dennis said.
“Power is borrowed, never owned. Seats are held temporarily. What lasts is character; how you win, how you lose, and whether you respect the rhythm of democracy when it turns against you,” he added.
He thanked the people of Buccoo/Mt Pleasant for their support over the years. “I want to thank you; to the people of Buccoo/Mt Pleasant and Tobago by extension; who trusted me, challenged me, supported me, and walked this journey with me over the years. Thank you to the team who stood firm when it was hardest, who believed when it was more lucrative to walk away, and who gave their all without guarantees.”
As for the future of the PNM Tobago Council, Dennis said: “To the emerging generation of leaders stepping forward to lead the PNM at this time, I offer my full support and encouragement. Leadership is not just about holding office, but about earning trust, making difficult decisions, and staying grounded in service to people above self. You will face pressure, criticism, and moments of doubt.
“Meet them with courage, discipline, and a clear sense of purpose. Tobago’s future will, in many ways, be shaped by your choices, and I am confident that, if you remain focused on the greater good, you will rise to the occasion. I stand ready, where appropriate, to support in the continued development and advancement of our island.”
What’s next for Dennis? He told the Express he intends to launch another business venture soon.
