Monday, May 1, 2006

by Stephen Cummings
Caribbean Net News Trinidad Correspondent
Email: stephen@caribbeannetnews.com

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad: High drama within Trinidad and Tobago's opposition party, the United National Congress (UNC) has resulted in three major developments, namely, the release of Basdeo Panday after spending five days at the maximum state prison in Arouca in relation to monies held in a London bank, the resignation of Ganga Singh as Opposition Chief Whip and the moving to the back benches of UNC political leader, Winston Dookeran.

It all happened on Friday, moments before Panday was due to be released from jail. Justice Anthony Carmona in the Port of Spain High Court, hearing of Panday's medical condition, decided to grant him TT$300,000 bail pending an appeal. The former opposition leader is facing a two-year hard labour jail sentence.

The court heard that Panday's release was based on medical reasons in that he had a serious heart condition for which constant monitoring and treatment were needed. It was also said that had he remained incarcerated for any length of time, he could die in prison.

Speaking with reporters after emerging from prison on Friday, Panday said, while he was not happy with the court's decision, his short time in jail would have served a purpose. He went on to tell reporters that his incarceration was evidence that there continues to be rampant discrimination and victimization within the society.

Meanwhile, the opposition's Chief Whip, Ganga Singh, caused further ripples in Parliament when he announced his resignation. Singh, like Winston Dookeran, said he continues to be undermined by a so-called clique within the UNC's executive and could take no more. He has, however, not indicated his intention to completely resign from the opposition, while Dookeran said his political future will be decided next week, whether he resigns or stays in the party.

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