00:00Being a republic, in essence, should mean that supreme power resides with the people
00:05of the nation, a point underscored by President Christine Kangaloo.
00:09However, she is of the view that, at this time, there is a challenge in citizens not
00:14stepping forward to use their talents to serve the public and strengthen the nation.
00:20President Kangaloo says, quote, some have doubted their abilities, while others hesitated
00:25to commit the time and energy necessary to fulfill their duties as citizens and as architects
00:32of our country's future, end quote.
00:36But according to her, any change towards a safe, responsible and productive country,
00:41which she believes will not happen overnight, has to come from people taking responsibility.
00:46As the country marks 48 years as a republic, President Kangaloo makes a call to citizens
00:52to, quote, discharge our civic duties with pride and vigilance by participating in the
00:57political process, attending public consultations, staying informed about current issues, voicing
01:04concerns to our elected representatives, and advocating for causes that resonate with us,
01:11end quote.
01:12She further encourages people to take their roles to serve seriously, instead of what
01:16she calls contending themselves with sitting on the sidelines or settling in the position
01:21of armchair critics.
01:24Meanwhile, opposition leader Kamala Bissessa is highlighting the 2025 general election,
01:31saying that she will continue to protect and preserve the constitutional rights, freedoms
01:36and privileges of the citizenry.
01:39She contends that over the past nine years under the PNM administration, independent
01:44institutions have come under attack.
01:46The UNC leader states, quote, numerous attempts to subvert the constitution and unprecedented
01:52government intrusion into the lives of average citizens have also occurred.
01:57From overbearing and overreaching financial legislation, health mandates, excessive spying
02:03and surveillance to interferences in the protective services, taxation authorities, service commissions
02:11and EBC, this government has taken the nation down a path of dictatorship.
02:17She also makes mention of the high level of crime and fear among the citizenry.
02:22She calls on the country to utilize their voting power to ensure protection of freedoms
02:27and an end to what she refers to as, quote unquote, government abuse, intrusion and overreach.
02:35Alicia Boucher, TV6 News.
02:41For more information visit www.fema.gov
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