AMIDST mounting pressure from at least five dissidents in the United National Congress (UNC), the party said in a surprise announcement that it would hold its National Executive (Natex) elections on June 15.
The five MPs are Mayaro MP Rushton Paray, Tabaquite MP Anita Haynes-Alleyne, Naparima MP Rodney Charles, Cumuto/Manzanilla MP Dr Rai Ragbir and Chaguanas West MP Dinesh Rambally.
They have been calling for the internal elections, constitutionally due in June, to be held. The fraction has said the UNC cannot win the general election, constitutionally due in 2025, under the existing executive, led by Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC. She is also the MP for Siparia.
Persad-Bissessar's position as political leader will not be contested in the election, which means she will continue to lead in the new Natex.
The election of a new political leader is due in 2025.
At least 19 posts are up for grabs in the upcoming elections.
These include the three deputy political leaders and party chairman.
The three outgoing deputy political leaders are Oropouche East MP Dr Roodal Moonilal, Pointe-a-Pierre MP David Lee and Senator Jearlean John.
Oropouche West MP Davendranath Tancoo is the current chairman.
Paray was the first person to call for the Natex to be held. With the date set, Paray said he was pleased that it was finally announced.
"These elections will play a critical role in the organisation, governance and management of our party. If the UNC is to break the cycle of repeated general election failures which have kept us in opposition for the past nine years, then we must reform the way our party operates and manages its affairs," a statement from Paray on May 11 said.
"I look forward to participating in these elections, and I will discuss the extent of my participation soon."
The MP also called on his colleagues to participate in these elections and let their voices be heard.
"The UNC belongs to all its members, and they have an essential role to play in restoring the vitality and electability of our party," he said.
"I ask all UNC members who are interested in participating in the good governance of our party to notify me in writing. Members can drop off their letters at Lot 16 McBean Road, Couva, from 6 am to 6 pm on any day from tomorrow (May 12)."
He added that now more than ever, Trinidad and Tobago needs the UNC in government.
Paray said, "We cannot allow this PNM (People's National Movement) regime to continue to destroy our nation for another five years. Building a stronger UNC means making a stronger Trinidad and Tobago."
Haynes-Alleyne was pleased with the announcement, which she called welcome news.
"Over the next few weeks, our party will have the opportunity to demonstrate to all members and the wider public the strength of our internal processes and our commitment to democracy," Haynes-Alleyne said via a media statement on May 11.
"I look forward to participating in this process of strengthening our party and engaging our membership. Truly, the successful execut
