June 30, 2026
While I have always enjoyed the passion of politics and current affairs, there are moments when the realities facing our society can become exhausting. As citizens, many of us continue to question why certain social challenges remain persistent and why, despite our progress as a nation, we still struggle with issues relating to accountability, opportunity, and public trust.
Trinidad and Tobago is a country filled with talent, ambition, and potential. However, we must honestly examine the systems that shape our society and ask ourselves whether we are creating an environment where every citizen has a fair opportunity to succeed.
The current government has now spent over a year in office and, as expected, the public continues to evaluate its performance and direction. Some citizens have expressed disappointment that the administration is not approaching governance in the same manner as the previous People’s National Movement (PNM) government. However, every administration inherits different circumstances, different challenges, and different expectations from the population.
Governance is not simply about continuing previous methods; it is about making decisions based on the realities facing the country at a particular moment.
Recent discussions surrounding job creation, public sector employment, and government spending have highlighted an important national conversation. Employment remains one of the most significant issues affecting families across Trinidad and Tobago. A job represents more than a salary; it represents dignity, stability, independence, and hope for the future.
The concerns raised regarding employment programmes and state agencies such as CEPEP, URP, and reforestation initiatives deserve careful consideration. If reviews are necessary due to concerns about governance, efficiency, or the management of public resources, then those reviews must be conducted fairly, transparently, and responsibly.
At the same time, we must recognise that many hardworking citizens who depended on these programmes for their livelihoods should not be viewed through a political lens. The average worker who showed up every day, performed their duties, and contributed to their community should not carry the burden of decisions beyond their control.
This is where fairness and compassion must guide public policy.
If government contracts or appointments are reviewed because they are perceived to be politically influenced, the process must distinguish between those responsible for decision-making and ordinary citizens who simply sought employment opportunities. Protecting the dignity of workers must remain a priority.
Another concern raised by many citizens is the issue of recruitment practices within government ministries and state agencies. There have been public discussions about whether nepotism or unfair advantages exist within employment systems. These concerns must not be ignored because trust in institutions depends on citizens believing that opportunities are based on qualifications, competence, and fairness.
A society cannot move forward if people believe that connections matter more than ability.
Merit-based recruitment is essential for building strong institutions. Young people entering the workforce need confidence that their education, skills, and determination can open doors. They must not feel that their future depends on who they know rather than what they can contribute.
The national conversation around the “job creation agenda at risk” is therefore bigger than politics. It is about the economic future of Trinidad and Tobago.
The State has historically played an important role as an employer, especially during times when private sector opportunities are limited. Public employment has provided stability for thousands of families. However, the long-term solution cannot be for government alone to remain the main source of employment.
A sustainable future requires stronger private sector growth, entrepreneurship, innovation, and investment in industries that can create lasting careers. Tourism, agriculture, technology, manufacturing, energy transformation, and creative industries must all become part of a wider economic strategy.
At the same time, government must ensure that spending is balanced with development. A country must not only focus on paying salaries but also on building the infrastructure and opportunities that allow future generations to thrive.
The challenge is finding the right balance between fiscal responsibility and social responsibility.
Too much focus on reducing expenditure without considering the impact on ordinary citizens can create hardship. However, ignoring financial realities can limit a government’s ability to invest in long-term growth.
Trinidad and Tobago needs a national reset in how we think about employment. We must move beyond short-term solutions and develop systems where citizens are equipped with skills that match the future economy.
Education, training, entrepreneurship support, and transparent hiring practices must become central pillars of national development.
As someone who follows politics and public affairs closely, my concern is not about supporting or opposing any political party. My concern is about the direction of our country and whether we are creating a fair society for the next generation.
Political differences will always exist in a democracy, but our shared responsibility must be to protect the interests of citizens.
The working class deserves respect. Young professionals deserve opportunity. Entrepreneurs deserve support. And every citizen deserves confidence that national institutions work for the benefit of all.
Job creation should never become a political talking point only; it must remain a national mission.
Our country has the talent and resources to succeed.
The author holds a BSc in Political Science from The University of the West Indies.
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