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Leadership crisis ­– the way forward - Trinidad and Tobago Newsday

ELIJAH MOTIERAM

TT HAS long been celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant economy, a trendsetter. However, in recent years we have witnessed a profound leadership crisis that has exacerbated long-standing issues, particularly in the realm of crime and public safety.

As crime rates continue to rise, discontent among citizens grows, revealing critical signs and deficiencies in leadership. We must examine the factors and proposals to strengthen the pillars to combat the persistent crime wave that plagues the nation.

Signs of leadership crisis

Erosion of public trust: One of the most glaring indicators of the leadership crisis is the erosion of public trust in political institutions. Citizens express scepticism towards their leaders, perceiving them as disconnected from the realities faced by ordinary citizens. This disillusionment often translates into apathy, undermining civic engagement and participation.

Ineffective policy implementation: Despite numerous initiatives aimed at addressing crime, such as the establishment of specialised police units and community outreach programmes, the tangible outcomes have been minimal. The failure to implement effective policies not only reflects poor governance, but also highlights a lack of accountability for leaders.

Inconsistent law enforcement: The inconsistency in law enforcement practices further exacerbates the leadership crisis. Citizens often witness selective policing, where certain communities feel targeted while others escape scrutiny. This inconsistency breeds mistrust and further fuels crime, as it creates an environment in which lawlessness can thrive. Who is guarding the guards?

Lack of vision and strategy: Effective leadership requires a clear vision and strategic planning. However, TT's political landscape is characterised by short-term policies driven by electoral cycles rather than long-term solutions. This lack of foresight hinders constitutional reform. Willpower and development of sustainable strategies to combat crime are major contributors.

Deficiencies in leadership

Inadequate crisis management: Effective leaders must have the capacity to manage crises efficiently. In TT, the response to escalating crime rates has often been reactive rather than proactive. Leaders must develop frameworks that anticipate and mitigate crises before they escalate, rather than merely addressing their aftermath.

Poor communication: A significant deficiency in leadership is the failure to communicate transparently and effectively with the public. In times of crisis, citizens need clear, accurate information from their leaders. A lack of communication leads to misinformation, panic, and further distrust.

Insufficient collaboration: Addressing crime is not solely the responsibility of law enforcement agencies; it requires collaborative efforts across multiple sectors, including education, police, judiciary, Parliament, social services, and community organisations. However, the current political climate is often characterised by silos, with l

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