By: Paul Sarran
April 28, 2026
For many years, people like myself have had to quietly return to the drawing board not because we have failed, but because we remain committed to helping build a better Trinidad and Tobago. While others may be seen and heard in the public space, there are many of us working silently behind the scenes. We push ourselves through university, face financial and personal struggles, and stay focused on achieving academic success. This journey is not easy. It is a constant battle, but one we choose because we believe we have something meaningful to offer our country.
Now, after earning a Bachelor of Science in Political Science, the reality is frustrating. Instead of being called upon to serve, many of us are left waiting and questioning the system. When will people like us be given the opportunity to contribute? When will qualifications, knowledge, and dedication truly matter? Too often, it seems that those who are loud, divisive, or politically connected are the ones who get recognised and rewarded. Meanwhile, those who have put in the work and remained committed to national development are overlooked.
One of the biggest concerns is the strong expectation to follow party lines. It often feels like independent thinking is not welcomed, and if you are not aligned with a political group, your chances of being considered for national service are limited. This creates a system where loyalty is valued more than ability. It discourages fresh ideas and prevents meaningful progress, because not everyone is given a fair chance to contribute.
Looking at the Parliament today raises even more concerns. There are ongoing discussions about the values, morals, transparency, and accountability of some Senators. While these concerns are valid, it also raises an important question: were these issues properly considered before these individuals were appointed? If the right checks were done, how did some of these appointments happen in the first place?
The Senate is supposed to be a serious and important part of the government. It is meant to include individuals who can think critically, review laws carefully, and contribute valuable ideas. It should not be a place where people are simply placed for appearance or political convenience. When individuals are appointed without clear merit or contribution, it weakens the purpose of the Senate and reduces public trust in the system.
This situation is especially discouraging for those of us who have been consistently advocating for change. We have invested in our education, taken part in discussions, conducted research, and prepared ourselves to serve. We are not asking for special treatment, we are asking for fairness. A country cannot expect progress if it ignores capable and qualified individuals while rewarding those who may not be fully prepared.
The responsibility to fix this lies with political leaders and the President. The process of appointing Senators must be more careful, transparent, and based on merit. It should not be about political advantage or personal connections. Instead, it should focus on finding individuals who are qualified, ethical, and ready to contribute to national development.
There also needs to be a shift in political culture. Leaders must start thinking about the long-term future of the country rather than short-term gains. Appointments should reflect a commitment to good governance, strong values, and real service to the people. When the right people are placed in important roles, it builds trust and confidence in the system.
For many of us, the desire to serve is not just personal ambition. It is about wanting to make a difference in Trinidad and Tobago. We are ready to bring new ideas, challenge outdated practices, and help create better policies. The real question is whether the system is ready to accept and support individuals like us.
I speak from a place of readiness and confidence. With my academic background and understanding of national issues, I believe I can make a meaningful contribution as a Senator. I understand the importance of good governance, accountability, and fair decision-making. These are values that should guide anyone in public office.
Trinidad and Tobago is facing many challenges, including crime, economic pressures, and social inequality. These issues require strong, thoughtful, and responsible leadership. This is not the time for politics as usual. It is a time to focus on real solutions and to use the talents of those who are prepared to serve.
If we truly want progress, then we must take the process of selecting leaders seriously. The Senate should be made up of individuals who are capable, principled, and committed to the country. It should be a place where ideas are carefully examined and decisions are made in the best interest of the people.
Until that happens, many of us will continue to wait but not without purpose. We will continue to prepare ourselves, stay engaged, and remain ready to serve when the opportunity finally comes. The hope is that one day, merit and dedication will matter more than politics, and that the system will open its doors to those who are truly ready to contribute.
The author holds a BSc in Political Science from The University of the West Indies.
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