Story Created:
Jan 28, 2013 at 8:48 PM ECT
Story Updated:
Jan 28, 2013 at 8:48 PM ECT
Well, well, well, the London PNM has prevailed, however, yours truly cannot offer any hypocritical congratulations to the PNM on the 12-nil victory in the 2013 THA elections.
It is the view of this column that the tenor of the PNM campaign was much too anti-East Indian and sisters. "Dem Indians go come and take we land." Ahsworth Jack sellout to dem Indians." "If the TOP win, Kamla go take over the Assembly." "Ah vote for the TOP is a vote for the UNC, and "the Pagans are coming" and the infamous, "Calcutta boat waiting to sail the Tobago." All these were comments which resonated from different levels of the PNM campaign and were all tinged with the phobia of racism against our East Indian fellow citizens.
Those comments penetrated the minds of Tobagonians and yours truly was confronted by young and old Tobagonians with this instilled fear of East Indians "invading" the island. It was shocking to hear supposedly intelligent men and women mouthing this nonsensical phobia about East Indians not conscious of thee short terms and long term damage to our rainbow nation and the Tobago economy. It was victory at all cost. It reminded me of when calypsonian Cro Cro, the 'darlin' of the PNM sang anti-Indian calypsos year after year. He was crowned calypso champion on many occasions, but it caused a dramatic drop in the attendance at calypso tents which could only survive because they are sponsored by the state.
As gallantly as the TOP fought, they found it difficult to defeat the ugly spectre of racist politics which prevailed during the campaign. In retrospect, maybe the TOP made a crucial blunder by not using the most potent weapon the People's Partnership to crush the racist politics in the THA election.
NJAC's Makandal Daaga is the most lethal weapon of destruction against racist politics in Trinidad and Tobago. He was the man who rose up to confront the racist politics between Indians and Africans in 1970. He led a march of thousands of Africans from Port of Spain to the Indian heartland in Couva to promote African/Indian unity. Since the days of Uriah Butler in 1937, Daaga's move to unite the races in 1970 was the most significant action in pursuing the cause of racial harmony in our nation. In addition, to his history in struggling to unite Africans and Indians, he has proven to be the most gifted orator in this part of the world. Yet the TOP did not seek his service to smash the devious and dangerous anti-Indian politics which played out in the THA elections.
When the PNM first came to Tobago in 1956 there was a Tobago leader named APT 'Fargo' James who was championing the Tobagonian cause for a better life. The PNM came up against James in the 1956 election and was beaten by James. The PNM went after James with a vengeance.
He was described as too dunce to represent Tobago. He was dubbed a 'boo boo man'. He was jeered and heckled by PNM supporters at his meetings and in the 1961 elections, some say the elections was stolen from him. He died shortly after.
A genuine Tobago leader was destroyed. Check the nullification of Ashworth Jack. However, credit must be given to Tobago PNM leader Orville London, who is a smart and clever operator. He was able to skillfully mobilise dissident former opponents, some of whom I would describe as political hustlers, such as Dr Vanus James, Hughvon Des Vignes, Winford and Max James, Deborah Moore Miggins and Hochoy Charles to launch vicious and concentrated attacks against the TOP leader. Well some may argue that this is part of the cut and thrust of politics but the main concern of yours truly was the anti-Indian campaign waged on the minds of African Tobagonians.
Maybe some African Tobagonians are not aware of the East Indian experience in Trinidad and Tobago. So let us for a moment take a look at the historical experience of the East Indians in Trinidad and Tobago. After chattel slavery ended in 1938, many of the former African slaves left the plantations to seek out a living in the urban areas. The British colonial masters then proceeded to India which was also under British domination and enticed the poor, downtrodden Indians to come to the Caribbean to work with the promise of land and money. Those who took the offer soon realised that the work on the plantations was slave like. There were housed in barrack like structures and were paid very small money for their hard labour.
After indentureship, the British failed to keep their deal with the Indians for land and money, so many remained as plantation labourers. However, their living and working conditions were so bad, they often protested and revolted and on one occasion many were shot dead by the authorities when they attempted to march into San Fernando to protest about their conditions of life.
During the 1930's Uriah Butler challenged the British colonial authorities about the exploitation of the workers in the oil industry (Africans) and the sugar industry (Indians).
Butler invited the Africans and Indians in the fight for better working conditions. The Indians gave Butler a motorcar to help him coordinate his operations. They also provided hiding places for him when he was being hunted by colonial authorities.
The Indian masses lived in abject poverty as they worked on the sugar plantations in South and Central Trinidad. The harsh conditions on the sugar lands exposed them to a variety of illnesses. They were forced to eat rice and bush (pumpkin, bhaji, etc). Their children went to school without shoes and their lunch was sometimes pieces of sugar cane or sada roti skin.
The exploited Indian sugar workers made the maximum sacrifice, they denied themselves the joys of life and saved their pittance to educate their children. Even though they were and exploited lot and deprived of basic social services in their communities, they 'banned their bellies' to send their children to colleges and universities.
As time moved on, the younger Indians became lawyers and doctors, some Indians went into business selling roti, doubles and produce from their agriculture. They held on to their culture and religion, which gave them the strength and unity to move forward in life.
The Indians made huge contributions to the development of T&T in politics, economics, sports, culture, science, health, engineering and agriculture to name a few areas. At present, the Indians are aiding to keep the Tobago tourism sector alive, they supply Tobago with food, motor vehicles and other commodities.
So for those who spread hate and fear of our East Indians brothers and sisters to win an election must remember that Indians are also God's children and part of the human family. Time longer than twine!
OPOKU WARE is a
freelance writer
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Brampton- Trini said on Thursday, Feb 21 at 10:33 PM
People, people forget about these foolish things and move on, we Trinibagoinans are known to be loving and peaceful ,we live like one, Africans, Indians what does it matter? Who cares about who got what and who did'nt, please don't start the racial thing it is no good, lets be one !
114216131sergio said on Saturday, Feb 16 at 1:25 PM
well some people could keep on fooling themselves by thinking that the Calcutta boat comment decided the election and not some of the pp. government miss steps Reshmi Ramnarine scandal section 34 just to mention are few in just a matter of a couple of weeks are we to believe that all Tobagonians voter’s became racist
113667811Fedupwiththismess said on Saturday, Feb 16 at 9:22 AM
Is this man for real? Makandal Daaga? He is just another LBA. As for you, the author of this ridiculous piece of brown mouthing, you obviously agree that calypsonians should be punished for exercising their right to free speech. You are free to express this level of utter ignorance but turn around and agree that the state should punish calypsonians. And as for your apologies to indians, it is they who owe black people in Trinidad & Tobago an apology for the racial discrimination they grudgingly dished out as soon as they were elected. Man mash. You are nothing more than a stray dog begging for scraps. Gone from here.
113652021Fedupwiththismess said on Saturday, Feb 16 at 9:20 AM
Is this man for real? Makandal Daaga? Just another LBA. As for you, the author of this ridiculous piece of brown mouthing, ou obviously agree that calypsonians should be punished for excercising their right to free speech. You are free to express this level of utter ignorance but turn around and agree that the state should punish calypsonians. And as for your apologies to indians, it is they who owe black people in Trinidad & Tobago an apology for the racial discrimination they grudinglydished out as soon as they were elected. Man mash. You are nothing more than a stray dog begging for scraps. Gone from her.
113651985Wensdae said on Saturday, Feb 16 at 7:59 AM
The polss has shown that even after the unfortunate statement TOP was still in contention of winning seats, something happened and that something was the Pm, the minister of security the miister of sport and the once minister oof justice hijacking the campaign. This columnist has done one thing only he has shown that the people of Tobago are mindless easily led and complete idiots to be following the politics of race today. This columnist does not believe that Tobago people can recognise the ineptness of the shower that is parading as a government. If there is any racism being touted out now it is the columnist who has now inflicted it on the population with his article. Tobagonians are better than this article and this columnist has earned his food in the "eat ah FOOD" society that we live in today.
113649521Ras b said on Friday, Feb 15 at 4:42 AM
We as human beings are constantly perpetuating life, and if we can inter breed racially but can't coexist in love then we are doing something wrong and what we are doing wrong to cause this rift is rooted in education. Why we not studying Hindi as a compulsory subject in high school. Why we not legalizing marijuana so Rastafarians could emerge as a viable spiritual way of life so the Africans can feel strong, We were made different so we can get to know each other. The country is so caught up trying to become a first world nation ( whatever that is) that we are on the verge of losing the national Soul,- we don't know who we are. What we have to understand is Man cannot live by bread alone.
113568241Tobago Mother said on Thursday, Feb 14 at 11:51 PM
1. Mr Sat Maraj is simply a mischief maker who stirs up trouble. Who made him emperor and advisor ? 2. There is nothing to apologise for. The only people affected are the politicians. Every one else is living in harmony with acceptable diversity. So Sat Maraj, Selwyn Cudjoe and Selwyn Ryan could put their mischief in their political pipes and smoke it. Long live Tobago with citizens who possess freedom of thought.
113558101the virginian said on Thursday, Feb 14 at 7:31 PM
Batchak@1:29PM;promise me you'd be a tad more careful in your interpretation.If you could recall,I never called T&T,Tobago in particular,a banana republic.Essentially I said that Tobago's comportment in things political might be likened to that of a banana republic.There's a stark difference between calling Tobago a banana republic and associating its political behavior with that of such a republic.It seems that my initial narrative have since fallen victim to the Tobago News censors.That happens periodically.
113543891the virginian said on Thursday, Feb 14 at 7:11 PM
Bless@9:42PM;you seem to be uncomfortable with my use of the word'plebiscite" in my narrative,which,by the way,I'm unable to locate because it might have since fallen victim to the Tobago News censors' discretion for whatever the reason(s).
113542621FogetSat said on Wednesday, Feb 13 at 12:32 PM
As far as I can see, Trinidad Indians are not taking on Sat Maharaj. They are still coming to Tobago in droves and enjoying themselves immensely with no problems whatsoever. Welcome my brothers and sisters. Forget Sat and his ignorance!!
113422701Batchak said on Wednesday, Feb 13 at 9:29 AM
Virginian think we are not a serious informed people; we are a "coconut republic" HA HA !!
113410181Bless said on Tuesday, Feb 12 at 9:42 PM
Virginian: "Plebiscite " really !!!
113390211The Right To Choose said on Tuesday, Feb 12 at 8:31 PM
As far as I understand, everyone has the right to chose who the wanted to vote for. If one chose the one over the other it is their choice, verbally abusing one another for their choice makes no difference, PNM won this year in 2009 they lost, everyone lived, of all the years that the party on power in Trinidad did not correspond with that in Tobago, Tobagonians survived, no one suffered, as far as I see nothing has changed, a choice was made and people will continue to survive and prosper regardless, so to the writer sorry you feel so strongly about race, but unfortunately it did not start here in Tobago and it did not start in 2009 to 2013, it has been enforced by Sat who does not care about Africans, so if an African now decides that they want to defend and keep what they have who is to say that they are racist because of it, so although you may not agree, it does not change the price of cheese, if PNM does not perform they will be removed, that's the game of politics. Live On!
113386371Anonymous said on Tuesday, Feb 12 at 4:07 PM
no,country that is separated by religion,could ever be a unity.simply because one would always feel more superior than the other.just look india and africa.
113370885RJ said on Tuesday, Feb 12 at 6:32 AM
Remember it was their religion, that kept the Indians together. The Africans were stripped of their religion and identity. They were both mentally and physically enslaved, they were more disadvantaged. We however need to work together as one people, for us to move forward in T&T.
113334861supporter said on Monday, Feb 11 at 2:43 PM
I totally agree with prayer 2013,is it worth it killing, cursing and saying hurtful things to people we say are our brothers and sisters? If a tornado was to come and devastate Trinidad or Tobago, would we leave each other hurt or get together and try to help the peoples who are hurt. Don't wait for something drastic to happen to say we love each other, we have to do so now.
113293821prayer2013 said on Monday, Feb 11 at 2:39 PM
Instead of going after one another stupidly, remember we all have to live in this country of Trinidad and Tobago, get down on your knees, and pray for the government and people of Trinidad and Tobago. Satan is happily laughing at you all and saying what else can I do to get them to continue acting like idiots. Stop it people. The higher-ups are drinking and smoking and laughing and having fun at everyone's expense and you all are trying to kill and degrade each other, its the human race people. Pray, please turn to God.
1132935452BAGOGL said on Sunday, Feb 10 at 4:02 PM
Shool mate Payne, a well written piece however Mr Bobb(RIP)our West Indian History teacher at Scarborough Sec would be ashamed of your deliberate omissions of facts. So you remember all about Indentured laborers. He taught us of the harsh conditions of slavery as well. In 92 before migrating I saw where Tobagonians were deserting agriculture. Don't you remember the days when Tobago was the food basket of TNT. so what the hell yuh talking bout E Indians feeding Tobago. How many free phones and other gifts did you receive. Why don't you try to encourage the young gonians to return to the land instead of a PH mentality. Don't you dare call Daaga into this. You are in no way in his class. He created history when only French creoles held positions in the banks. I was in those marches on the streets of POS with raised fist shouting "POWER TO THE PEOPLE" I take umbrage to your nonsense about race. We enjoyed Tobago with the cross culture of people of all races. STOP YOUR GARBAGE POLITICS ou
113241811bobolee said on Sunday, Feb 10 at 10:47 AM
As I mentioned the only boat to think aboput is the one from kalkatta with a roti on the aerial mainly for the transfer of money. The other boats from Europe and other parts of the world is allowed free entry. The boats from India historically is the problem. Why is the East Indian man the problem for some African men and women. I thought we are all Trinis. Maybe the East Indian man outside Trini learnt a few lessons on racial superiority especially those residing in America, Canada and England. Trini African man must invite a boat from Africa with a cargo of Africans to Trini and maybe this will stop the boat from Kalkatta provided the boat from Africa could make the journey. Africa is now the new technical and scientific powerhouse of the world, we in Trini desperately African engineers, doctors, scientists,accountants, lawyers, barristers. NO politicians or signers, America will provide this in private jets. Maybe the East Indian should remind themselves that they are not Europeans.
113225751reality said on Sunday, Feb 10 at 1:39 AM
We're living in d n times,every race has prejudice,blk,wht,ind,chi,spn and every other race.Let's b for real people,it's going to b this way right to d finish.Make a difference and share some love.Peace out!
113210541Anonymous said on Friday, Feb 8 at 8:11 PM
To Jeremy. I was told by a retired Indian diplomat that one of the duties of the diplomats is to ensure that people are exported. This is because they cannot control their population. So, I would not be surprised if what you asked about could be true.
113140431Batchak said on Friday, Feb 8 at 6:23 AM
In 2009 Tobagonians had high hopes for the PP government. They saw the change in central government as a new era in or history for open and fair political practices they Thought that a woman PM will be more in-tune with the dreams and aspirations of all the people of T&T...we sort a new vision and Kamla's UNC was seen as that visionary and guiding light a force for change...Now they call us "Stupid" "Foolish" "Small Brained"...How quickly they forget !!! How swiftly they remind us that they are not to be trusted...I would prefer a PANDAY UNC any day over what we getting now...If PANDAY wasnt such a Thief but at-least he was a good Leader...at least he was fair... 2 YEARS LEFT !!!
113093231Batchak said on Friday, Feb 8 at 5:19 AM
@Truth: You just clueless...For the past 12 years under PNM Tobago Flourished construction Boomed... appropriation of National treasures (Tobago Land Heritage)...Just Speak to Business owners in Tobago and they will tell you how good it was...Speak to People Like Singh (hardward store owner) Almandoz and Stumpy just to name a few...Ever since UNC take over everything just gone to hell....Crime gone clear, corruption on the rise (UN Curruption Index on T&T almost double) ...Murder rate sky rocket, Next to no development in the country, Investor running scared from Trinidad all in the last 3 years...Yes UNC can win without Tobago but it will only happen if PNM supporters don't show up to the Polls in Trinidad like in 2009 wiht one of the lowest voter turnout in T&T history... Yeah my Brain Small and Your Big Like a Whale right...Bigger is not always better !!! 2 YEARS LEFT
113091671Jeremy said on Friday, Feb 8 at 1:45 AM
I have a burning question that no one seem wiling to answer.Was there some level of discussions to have experts from india to assist in boosting agriculture in Tobago
113086191Anonymous said on Thursday, Feb 7 at 9:37 PM
PEOPLE if you want to know the truth,just take a drive around in Trinidad and see the horrific living conditions,turn on the television and see the hideous living standards.read the newspappers and read about the corruptions.Trinidad can and could never be compared to Tobago and Tobago has beign governed by pnm for years.so who would you trust ,a failing,falling society in Trinidad,our a slow,but progressive country Tobago.Is that not the reason why TRINIS now flocking to TOBAGO.mAny Tobagonians dont even want to go to TRINIDAD,but have to.what tinis doing in Tobago.we aLL KNOW who need who most.thats why they dont want to loosen the reigns and give us our country.because we are brighter and better than all they brains put together.so you dont need to debate with batchak,you just need to start beign honest with yourself and stop sweeping truth under the carpet .because we aint never putting you and your people ever again in no kind of power.down now and forever.
113076961Anonymous said on Thursday, Feb 7 at 6:48 PM
Yes Bachack, you go and vote PNM like laventille and change the Govt. The PP could win without the 2 tobago seats. I am wasting my time debating with you. Do you know the size of the brain of a bachchac????? Nuff said.You are too blind and will believe anything you hear.
113068481Batchak said on Thursday, Feb 7 at 5:38 PM
Oh yes we Foolish-foolish for what we did in 2009! worst government ever: "2 years left"
113064796Batchak said on Thursday, Feb 7 at 5:32 PM
Up to now you eh mention one Board Member yet...As for Ivor Archy UNC is hell bent on getting rid of the Chief Justice. As far as the Boards go Its a couple hundred board members So keep counting until you can find some equity. I know the former Minister of transport "Davant" also for founder of the group for the "prosperity of the Hindu people" I forget the name which Sat is also a member...Davant said in conversations "Is We time know" Billions of Dollars are being poured into UNC strong holds vs peanuts for Rest...I will undo what I did in 2009...I have no love for PNM but between UNC mismanagement of Tax payers money its a simple choice of lesser of two evils "2 Years Left"
113064496Anonymous said on Thursday, Feb 7 at 2:18 PM
Now ...is that computer you are using is the free one you get from the PP govt, spewing garbage on the net?????
113050971The Truth said on Thursday, Feb 7 at 2:14 PM
The PP doing ethnic stocking' Look at the evidence. President elect...non indo Trini President of senate....non Indo Trini Speaker of the House...Non indo Trini MIn. of national Sec....non indo Trini Min of Culture ...non indo Tobago MPs ...non indo Min. of finance...non indo Min of Culture....non indo DPP...non indo Chief Justice...non indo and I could go on and on but yet you dumb fools are blinded by PNM propaganda or just plain too stupid to see. Ans those positions above are the most powerful in T&T
113050701The Truth said on Thursday, Feb 7 at 2:03 PM
The PP govt is the only govt that is representatives of all peoples in T&T. Robinson also said that. It is a ns was always the PNM who is tribal and discriminates against other people. No promotions for certain races. Look at the Police , Army and public service. You will see mostly people like yourself. Who is trying to help the people of Laventille and Tobago. Kamla used $300 million to give work to people in Laventille. What about other poor areas in T&T. Nobody complained. The PP Govt is not the racist party. Listen again to your racist Sandy Calcutta. But too you, that is not racist eh???? Remember PNM secret scholarship etc. That is racism. Tobago will become another Laventille. Just wait. And you are a PNM till you daed like the people in Laventille...no brains. Who you trying to fool...you never voted PP. What the Jamaica paper wrote is just plain propaganda which you will believe, since you all believed what Sandy told you all. Now who is the fool????
113049761Batchak said on Thursday, Feb 7 at 12:08 PM
Even though People don't vote for you-you are still responsible for their well being to provide Jobs and development for them but as you will see UNC don't understand this concept...AIrport Need development so do it, Marina needs building so do it it will provide jobs for Locals...Even though UNC TOP won 60% of the votes in Last General Election they are still responsible for 100% of the citizenry...It was a mistake voting for PP in 2009...I wish I could take back that vote...2 YEARS TO GO!!!
113041321Batchak said on Thursday, Feb 7 at 12:01 PM
@Truth:so UNC supporters not Tribal mentality ? Who are the supporters of UNC Mr Truth? How much money does Sat contribute to UNC party? You are Hypocritical...Stay In Trinidad !!1 2 YEARS to GO !!
113040761Batchak said on Thursday, Feb 7 at 7:13 AM
Listen to Sat Mahraj Radio station and come again...We have a deep divide in T&T that surfaced in 2009 with UNC/COP take over Government... Tobago worker from the Ish owned hotel Grafton had to endure racist and bigoted comments from their Trinidad "Indian" Manager..."Is we Time now !" was the common saying followed by insults...I live in Tobago I hear the stories of the workers from their own mouths...Many of them left the Grafton hotel to work for Magdalena...Some of you don't live here but you talking out your PIE HOLE !! I know what I talking about...What about the Ethnic Stocking of Government boards as reported by the Jamaican News papers... Because the Express and Guardian afraid of government reprisals...Alyuh Don't know what going on in this country nah !!! Thank God we have THA as a buffer against a wicked central government like this... 2 YEARS TO GO !!!
113026466Anonymous said on Wednesday, Feb 6 at 9:12 PM
Thruth you have noclue of the history of Trinidad and Tobago to make the comments you did.but then again the devil said he spoke truth when eve was seduced.Gods truth and the devils truth is two different things.And the peole of Toabgo has spoken and accepted Gods truth.i dont have the energy to go into details about our history,but know this that the indians in Trinidad are imports from india.so Trinidad dont belong to them.that mix of people in Trinidad have beign from the begginning of time.,while Tobago remained poorly coloured.Trinidad took all the work from Tobago,so rightfully they should follow their work.so blame Trinidad for beign greedy.
113007486Tobago Mother said on Wednesday, Feb 6 at 8:43 PM
Trinidad does not owe us anything. Trinidad just needs to give us our own tax dollars. Many of us pay big taxes. There is no free ride. Therefore, if they have been taught a lesson , they should learn something from it.
113006475BagoMan said on Wednesday, Feb 6 at 12:56 PM
I am offended by the way everyone keeps saying Tobago elected the PNM. Yes the PNM won all 12 seats, but there are people in Tobago who did not vote for the PNM. The people here who did not vote for the PNM have to withstand the same racial comments and bashing, because everyone believes that the voice of many is the voice of all. Every day that I read the newspapers I am deeply hurt by the comments made by my Trinidadian brothers and sisters. Is it that you do believe that we have made no contribution to this nation's development? Yet I see so many of us working in Trinidad in key positions. If you can hold this view towards all of us whether we voted PNM, TOP or not at all, then I should have to rethink the idea of you being my brothers and sisters.
112973565Anonymous said on Wednesday, Feb 6 at 11:07 AM
Batchak... you prove my point. read my blog again if you can read and understand. (Truth)
112964811HOW COME said on Wednesday, Feb 6 at 11:05 AM
How come Tobagonians could come to Trinidad and run for President and prime minister and vote here too, and work, buy land , house car etc, but Trinis can't vote in Tobago or run for office in Tobago or buying land is a crime. Doesn't the anthem say "every creed and race find an equal place"?
112964711Batchak said on Wednesday, Feb 6 at 10:36 AM
Stay In Trinidad...don't come here, ungraceful Beeeches's!!
112962791Batchak said on Wednesday, Feb 6 at 10:34 AM
General elections is only 2 years away...If PNM comw out in force PP cannot hold government. UNC is the worse leaders this country has ever seen and what happen in 2009 can never happen again. Tobago Voted for PP and the UNC Loved us now they hate us ...Never Again !
112962691Truth said on Wednesday, Feb 6 at 10:28 AM
The fact is Tobago refused Int. Self Gov't, so they have to run to Trinidad (PP and Kamla) for money to start up their URP work for their supporters, who are now dependent on PNM for a small income and to be dependent on PNM. They refused a university, airport upgrade, hospital PNM never delivered which the PP did, chased away tourists and investors, preached racism and still think they are smart. Nationalism my a**. Tobago should now secede and go on their own or stay and become another PNM masterpiece as Laventille..a PNM showpiece after 50 years and nothing for them but they still voting PNM because of the dependency syndrome. So Tobago, continue voting PNM and think you are smart and nationalistic. PNM is a tribal cult until the people eyes are opened and their minds, they will remain a tribal party with racism as their main weapon. Is that what you want for your children's future??????
112962366BagoMan said on Tuesday, Feb 5 at 10:43 PM
Are our minds so small that we are still talking race instead of trying to mend bridges? Our country's watch words are Discipline, Tolerance and Production. But it seems that we can't have any of the above, so it is best we change them to Indiscipline, Racialism and Stagnation. Come on man, we are supposed to be big, intelligent people, is time we stop this nonsense.
112937611Town Dawg said on Tuesday, Feb 5 at 9:42 PM
Ware you have the gall to call anybody hustler? When you run from Administration to Administration trying to eat a food in the name of culture? People like you who play up this race thing to the point that Sat is now willing to caste aside anything or anyone of Tobago, including in this group the TOP supporters who tried to fight down Hilton Sandy. Many of you cannot accept that there are still Tobagonians who believe in decency and integrity; these person's actions were manifested on 21 January 2013. Great is Tobago and greater are its seeds. Like Sandy - the slave, we'll fight with conviction for what is justly ours.
112934641Anonymous said on Tuesday, Feb 5 at 9:38 PM
Have people really beign to Trinidad and seen the poverty,criminal and corruption which plaques the nation.And you call that development.Is that the kind of development Trinidadians wants Tobago to adopt.everything is showing that what we are and what we have is of HIGH quality in comparison to Trinidad.I Think its time for Tobago to start trading with other carribbean countries.That they they come away from this total Trinidad dependency.i believe that this would be a very productive endeavour.They should have a boat docked at charlottville travelling to thse other countries so they can open the doors for trade on both sides.Trinidad seems to think that without them Tobago would not survive,we survived for years without you people.Tourismn was going through the roof before you people started to get involved.Tobago has beign on adecline because of you people so take the shades off all your faces and see the truth.and stop allthe lying about how important Trinidad is.you people need us
112934386Supanatural said on Tuesday, Feb 5 at 3:46 PM
Anyone who really thinks Tobagonians voted because of race is so wrong. TOP would have feared better under different leadership. TOP needs to change its leader. Are people so blinded by race how the a man build a house on pumpkins and cumbers in months and not even have a callus on his hand Tobagonian’s are people of integrity some Trinidadians will never understand this principle, everything is now about a bride or a kick back. Some Indo Trinidadians no longer what to patronize Tobago, hmmm a wonder where would they visit now? In all countries visitors face some form of racism and discrimation. We have leaders who are continuously using this race thing to cloud the nation's eyes. Let us remove the clouds and understand after fifty years we still all have to face rising food prices, poor health care, massive unemployment and underemployment crime and the list goes on. Do we talk race when we cannot feed our families and do not get proper health care? I think not.
112912301The Answer said on Tuesday, Feb 5 at 3:35 PM
The comments to this article lead only to one logical answer. Tobago has no future. Leave it alone and let it burn itself to the ground. Good riddance...racist bigots
112911695Serenity said on Tuesday, Feb 5 at 3:33 PM
To my Indo Trini brother/Sister; I respect your right to make a decision on where you visit. As a Tobagonian who voted in the last election I do not think that it should be interpreted as recist. I grow up with indians in Tobago (although far fewer than in Trinidad) and I never remember them being treated badly because of race. Those who interpret the elections through a racist prism should consider the fact that Tobagonians voted in signifcant numbers for the UNC led PP in 2010. Were they racist then? In the past; Tobago has rejected any politician from outside the island that attempted to impose their will on the island. These included Williams and Mananing himself (both Afros). The issue is not race but a strong, proud Tobago nationalism. That must be respected. The PP govt performance and Ashworth's lack of forthrightness regarding his house, were also issues. Notwithstanding your statements, I still extend my love to you as a fellow citizen and Tinbagonian. Peace!!
112911521A Trini said on Tuesday, Feb 5 at 2:33 PM
I am a Indo Trini. I used to visit Tobago frequently; rent cars; eat at restaurants; pay to go Bucco Reef, rent skiddo etc. Now I will never visit Tobago after reading the above comments by small minde racists Tobagonians. Multiply that by 85% of people that will not come again from Trinidad. Tobago has shown itself to be penny wise and pound foolish. Who Orville has to go to get money to squander? THA is another CPEPP, no productivity or returns. How much money does Tobago generate. T&T will never progress unless we see each other as Trinibagonians and not Africans, Indians , Chinese etc. Tobago is a drain on the nation's treasury. They have enough resourses to run their own economy but is too stupid as demonstrated in the last election. No wonder they reject a University and other things to move forward. Idiots.
112906751MIDNIGHT NURSE said on Tuesday, Feb 5 at 12:39 PM
who like more land corruption bribe rum drinking weedecide but they have made lots of contribution . SAT vex he cah build he temple dey . Even the sea felt the evil trying to cross over lick yuh wounds and keep quiet
112897685the truth said on Tuesday, Feb 5 at 12:14 PM
Ignorant racist fools. Stop trying to use that grey matter in your head. You obviously can't use it properly. Tobago is 99% black and 75% of your customers are Indians. Do the math. you are going to sink your own ship which, I suppose, is good because then you will all drown and tobago can truly evolve.
112896201Anonymous said on Tuesday, Feb 5 at 9:38 AM
This man reminds me of lots wife,who looked back and tured into a pillar of salt,so all he keep preaching is the disobedience of GOD.expect nothing better.children of disobedience would always voice the words,action outside of the true gospel,wisdom and understanding of God.
112886095Gonian said on Monday, Feb 4 at 3:53 PM
We must remember that Ware is a member of NJAC which is part of the PP. He is not an independent journalist. One of his main concerns is for Tobago to have a second Carnival, so that he can sing his calypso and eat a food. He was hoping that the TOP would allow this to happen but he must be very disappointed.
112846591Anonymous said on Sunday, Feb 3 at 6:54 PM
3.50 ALL I COULD DO WAS LAUGH AT YOUR BLOGG,FUNNY MAN,WOMAN THAT YOU ARE.BUT ONE THING I AGREE WITH I AM NOT SURE THAT I AM IN TOTAL ACCEPTANCE OF THE AFRICAN DOCTORS,BUT AS LONG AS THEY ARE DOING THE JOBB CORRECTLY ,SHOWING THEIR CAPABILITY I AM IN TOTAL SUPPORT OF THEM.BUT LET TIME SHOW US THE WAY FORWARD.TOBAGO NEED TO HAVE SCHOOLS SET UP TOMPROVIDE FOR LOCAL DOCTORS STUDIES,WITH PRACTICE SERVICES ABROAD.THIS WOULD BE A VERY GOOD INVESTMENT,FOR ENCOURAGING HIGHER EDUCATION.
112803115anonymous said on Sunday, Feb 3 at 3:50 PM
Tobagians so worried about the Indian invation n that there a bigger problems on the island such as the serious state of the brand new hospital opened less than months and most of the machines necessary for daily medical care is in non working condition. The machine needed in the lab for testing paitients blood for proper medical diagnosis is not working. The nurses and doctors are subjected to performig their duties without proper medica equipment. Other problem how do you ha"ve a hospital wiithout relatives with a patient and the patient in the hospital even having someplace to even get a drink of water. And most of all the African doctors "not sure the have a medical degree" are rude and totally disrectful to patients and to the native doctors of Trinidad and Tobago. During spending the night in the emergency room with 2 relatives the only doctor who had any bedside manner and spoke to relative was a young female Indian doctor who was very disheartened and disappointed. SAD
112795465Anonymous said on Sunday, Feb 3 at 1:38 PM
now lets see if he would write soorry to his Tobagoninan brothers,hypocrite thjat he is.
112788841i just repeating what someone else said said on Sunday, Feb 3 at 11:01 AM
That is why WE as a people MUST support our OWN. For the them to say that their businesses are not supported by us is WICKED and UNGRATEFUL. Look at the LONG LINES outside the roti shop uptown, EVERYDAY with PREDOMINANTLY BLACK TOBAGONIANS,CONSTANTLY. But we're not learning. Why don't we line up outside the business places of oue OWN that sell the same thing? Let us EMPOWER OUR PEOPLE and ENRICH them too, since empowering these people doesn't result in them liking US.They only like the money we spend, nothing else. Check out all the other comments they made about Tobago and Tobago people on the network. Check out the TOP and PM's pages on facebook and you'd see that it's not only Sat saying nasty things about US and our island. Does Opuku think that licking and kissing deh BEHIND will result in them liking him? They love it when they can get OUR people to go against each other. But he's too caught up in HATING the PNM and SULKING over the VICTORY to know that
112782041repeat said on Sunday, Feb 3 at 10:57 AM
Batchak said on Monday, Jan 28 at 10:51 PM Sat M. would love this article. As his radio station spews hate towards the Afro TrinBagonians. I listen as his callers talk about taking over and Shipping the Blackman back to Africa...Is there any surprise that this spilled over to Tobago...Why don't you talk about that...You people are either in denial or part of a conspiracy to cover up the Hate the Trini indians have toward Trini Black and this is the result...Like Panday would say back in his Hay day "The Indian man is being victimized by this government"...That's how Panday became opposition by Pitting Indian against Black...So Take that and smoke it !!
112781781johnny said on Sunday, Feb 3 at 9:22 AM
when are we going to move on? when we have "mercenaries"in journalism, religious bigotry; people talking down to us as tobagonians and expecting us to get ourselves in a corner and humble?i wasa teenager in 1970 and from the daagas to the opoku wares they have failed black people look at what they defend today!!they have contributed nothing only garbage and antiquated philosophies.tobagonians are moving on in a different way to shape their future. we can achieve it. small as we are we have the wiil. ignore the foxes who cant /didn't get the grape(tobago).
112777535Tobago lover said on Saturday, Feb 2 at 7:06 PM
If some of you represent the brilliant minds of Tobago .......May God have mercy on Tobago.
112751121Anonymous said on Saturday, Feb 2 at 5:05 PM
That's right Ware, after indenture -ship, the British failed to keep their deal with the Indians for land and money, so many remained as plantation labourers. However, their living and working conditions were so bad, they often protested and revolted and on one occasion many were shot dead by the authorities when they attempted to march into San Fernando to protest about their conditions of life. Thanks for confirming that Ashworth Jack, your genuine Tobago boy wanted to sell out Tobago heritage. Ah fuh dah reason ahweeh in have fuh vote. Race was never the factor or else the Indian brothers and sisters from the sister isle dat support the PNM campaign against the disrespect and deception including the bill and most importantly CORRUPTION could not have sat back and have Tobago be handed over to this sort of unethical behaviour of the PP. Ah just hope dey en kill be brother Ashworth for failing to deliver.
112745955anon said on Saturday, Feb 2 at 4:48 PM
Just to repeat a small fact. Sandy stole that "Calcutta " speech from the British National Party. Instead of the boat from Calcutta it was the boat from the West Indies bringing black people
112745341hmm said on Saturday, Feb 2 at 2:11 PM
knowing the man like I do if he is offered something by the PNM now his story on next week Tobago news will be praising the PNM
112737505hmm said on Saturday, Feb 2 at 2:07 PM
amazing simply amazing, I cant help but laugh ware and his popularity contest that he never wins
112737285Anonymous said on Saturday, Feb 2 at 12:46 PM
let WARE KNOW THAT INTELLIGENCE,AND WISDOM WOULD LEAD IN TOBAGO AT ALL TIMES.I FOR ONE LOVED THE CALCUTTA STATEMENT AND HOPES THAT HE TAKES A RIDE IN THAT BOAT TO WHEREVER THEY WANT TO DEPORT HIM..AS LONG AS ITS NOT IN TOBAGO.
112733125BLACK EMPOWERMENT said on Saturday, Feb 2 at 11:34 AM
That is why WE as a people MUST support our OWN. For the them to say that their businesses are not supported by us is WICKED and UNGRATEFUL. Look at the LONG LINES outside the roti shop uptown, EVERYDAY with PREDOMINANTLY BLACK TOBAGONIANS,CONSTANTLY. But we're not learning. Why don't we line up outside the business places of oue OWN that sell the same thing? Let us EMPOWER OUR PEOPLE and ENRICH them too, since empowering these people doesn't result in them liking US.They only like the money we spend, nothing else. Check out all the other comments they made about Tobago and Tobago people on the network. Check out the TOP and PM's pages on facebook and you'd see that it's not only Sat saying nasty things about US and our island. Does Opuku think that licking and kissing deh BEHIND will result in them liking him? They love it when they can get OUR people to go against each other. But he's too caught up in HATING the PNM and SULKING over the VICTORY to know that.
112729861Anonymous said on Saturday, Feb 2 at 7:23 AM
Is racism a characteristic that only the African man suffers from. When the east indian got on the guardian news paper, the day before elections and say they are afraid of us because all we does do in Tobago is wuk obeah, and that most of the sales they get in their businesses is from foreigners, that we in Tobago don't support them at all. I wonder why they are here in Tobago. It is amazing how we can be verbally abused by them, and when we take actions to defend ourselves from their venom, we have people like Opuku Ware appologising on our behalf. Instead of in the DEFENCE OF TOBAGO, AND TOBAGONIANS.
112719541Anonymous said on Saturday, Feb 2 at 3:15 AM
Mr. Sat Maharaj should be the one to talk about people making racial statements. Perfect case of pot calling the kettle back. Sat Maharaj’s was not the one who said he would disown his daughter if she marries an African or anyone outside his religion? Wonder if he ever apologized for that?
112714791Anonymous said on Saturday, Feb 2 at 3:14 AM
PNM didn't win the election by anything that they did. The TOP had enough issues that could have let them walk away with the win, but they preferred to have jam and wine parties instead of hammering home the issues in the minds of the Tobago public. What Mr. Sandy said was wrong, I agree totally. In this election some people voted party, some race, some issues and some didn't vote at all.
112714781Anonymous said on Saturday, Feb 2 at 2:12 AM
It is interesting how people can be so small minded. The statement that Tobago voted race is being used in every forum across this country. What about the people who voted TOP and those who didn't even vote? Are they racist too? The way people are talking you would think that the TOP didn't get a single vote in the election. I am asking all politicians and reporters to be careful of the things they say. It is not a good thing to generalize like Mr. Sat maharaj has done to all Tobago People whether they voted PNM, TOP, TPT or not at all.
112713235Desuperman said on Saturday, Feb 2 at 1:54 AM
I hope the PNM victory gripe Ware like STALE CURRY for the next FOUR YEARS. This man is such stupid LBA(I leave it up to the readers to figure what this means).I just read the first few lines and didn't bother to continue(I may just,not sure). Did Ware listen to Sat Maharaj's comments following the election?Did he hear the nasty,stinking,HATEFUL remarks about TOBAGONIANS,we BLACK PEOPLE?Ware is a member of NJAC, who is SUPPOSED to be the voice of the BLACK Trinbagonian,but chooses to sacrifice HIS OWN infavour of SAT and his kind,just because he HATES the PNM so much and is bitter after the 12 nil cut@s.. NEVER will I have any respect for Opuku Ware.Who from the East Indian community is prepared to apologize to Tobagonians for what Sat Maharaj has said against us?Why do WE as BLACK people ALWAYS pander to other races and join them in their hatred against their own? WHY?Sat told his Hindun people DON'T COME to Tobago and bring food if you do.What does Ware think about this?I'm so sick.
112712466flowers said on Saturday, Feb 2 at 12:57 AM
Why can't we move forward! PNM won and we still putting down each other. Let the Indians be themselves and us Africans unite so we can be stronger and build a nation of wealth so we can enjoy. I saw this coming years ago when the indians were just buying up the land in Tobago & they still doing it using African brothers to come from Trinidad and put it in their name! We have a long road ahead of us so let's try to work together.
112710931dallo said on Friday, Feb 1 at 9:39 PM
Ashworth brought down the party due to hubris. When you want to help people you have to humble yourself. Indian talk was not why the PNM won.
112703671Anonymous said on Friday, Feb 1 at 9:31 PM
you are still beating the wrong issue. People vote based on many factors. The defeat was based on Jack's stupidity. He became corrupt due to what the indians were offering him. He showed that he does not have the intregity needed to lead. Hubris brought him down. Too much power corrupt totally.
112703255anon said on Friday, Feb 1 at 6:10 PM
Can I ask anyone of these vitriolic speakers to give me their history, their persona, their stance in life. Maybe something more simplistic, like their neighbours. Do they love them for being themselves even if they are different? Too radical thinking for them , Mr Ware, why bother?
112694072Anonymous said on Friday, Feb 1 at 12:58 PM
Poor Opuku! The garbage you spill tells me you are a true house "slave" (don't want to use the other word}
112672201Anonymous said on Thursday, Jan 31 at 1:08 AM
when a blind man tries to lead.and fools follow suit,they all drown in stupidity.tell me has anyone ever heard of ware taking time off to travel to Africa to help the poor .the name and people he so proud of.no he stuck in Tobago,like clue,living off the land,and yet still condemning the same country.he truly has a slave mentality.
112569116Anonymous said on Thursday, Jan 31 at 1:04 AM
Anon aware of which roots,the man dont even know if he is indian,tobagoninan our black.he is full of insecurity and identity crisis.he is mentality crippled.i am not saying this to be mean,but just read his articles..he cant even see truth ,even if it hit him in the head.well what are you saying anon that all Tobagoninas should erace their names and go and find their names in the african roots,so we can all be proud.Exactly what is he proud about.beign an afican,exactly whta makes him identify with africa,what ,only a history.when god blesses you with something you dont call him aliar.Iam a Tobagonina and of this i am proud and glad,i am free to recieve this blessing and would accept it,with joy of hearth.I am married ,i took my husbands name,my children followed suit,because we created our own future,we did not choose to live in the past.we choose a name and remains faithfullnto such ,and one day our children ,would live in that freedom to start their own lives .
112569011anon said on Thursday, Jan 31 at 12:51 AM
To take discussions to a higher plane,less time spent on bigots must be better.As to Mr.Ware choosing his African name it is his perogative. If he chooses to embrace his African heritage he must be respected for his choice.And I am very happy he is one of the few is aware of his roots
112568586John said on Wednesday, Jan 30 at 1:56 PM
We claim to be one people but we are not and we should recognize and embrace our differences, but this vitriol; how sad. Who is this Opoku anyway, is he a Tobagonian, and if yes, why did he find it necessary to change his name? Identity issues perhaps. You are not helping sir.
112529695Batchak said on Wednesday, Jan 30 at 1:17 PM
The Trini Indians have done well for themselves and nobody deputes that fact but when you have people like Sat Maraj saying the racist anti-black things he is well known for and nobody from the Kamla UNC rebukes the man for the things he says, that does not look good.
112526871anon said on Wednesday, Jan 30 at 12:55 AM
Excellent Brother.If we all knew our history we would live in a better world.
112491751Bago Boy said on Tuesday, Jan 29 at 8:17 PM
Opoku Ware keep publishing spittle! Idiotic rants like yours are partly responsible for the TOP's colossal defeat....please I beg you...keep writing your filth....the PNM welcomes your help to win back the two seats in the 2015 Elections. Once again....thanks for your assistance in 2013. Much love...keep it up my "brudder".
112478311Anonymous said on Tuesday, Jan 29 at 12:03 PM
WHEN YOU OPEN A TRASH CAN ALL YOU GET IS RUBBISH,WHAT DO YOU EXPECT FROM WARE.
112441441Anonymous said on Tuesday, Jan 29 at 12:01 PM
nO T6T OBSERVER,THEY SAY NOTHING THEY JUST DEAL WITH OUTSIDERS BY BLOCKING THEM OUT OF THE SOCIAL ARENA.
112441245TrinBagonian said on Tuesday, Jan 29 at 2:48 AM
So, "...the British failed to keep their deal with the Indians for land and money,.." Therefore NO EAST INDIANS got land and/or money from the British? Do clarify Mr. Ware !!!!!
112418266Batchak said on Monday, Jan 28 at 10:51 PM
Sat M. would love this article. As his radio station spews hate towards the Afro TrinBagonians. I listen as his callers talk about taking over and Shipping the Blackman back to Africa...Is there any surprise that this spilled over to Tobago...Why don't you talk about that...You people are either in denial or part of a conspiracy to cover up the Hate the Trini indians have toward Trini Black and this is the result...Like Panday would say back in his Hay day "The Indian man is being victimized by this government"...That's how Panday became opposition by Pitting Indian against Black...So Take that and smoke it !!
112409581peoplesay said on Monday, Jan 28 at 10:10 PM
The above article have shed some light on the struggles of the East Indian population in Trinidad,can the Tobago man remember 1970 the "Black Power" movement and what it did for us.Tobago was united back then remember when we were not getting goods from Trinidad,petrol was scares,basic commodities were scares,many a household eat green fig and salt to survive, those were the hash days of 1970.It seems to me that a few people within this society want to lead the youths down a part of no return. Their ideology have outlive their existence here in Tobago,They have return from foreign land with their degrees of higher learning.What have they really done in terms of taking a youth into their work place.To me Vanus James want a work,he needs to be recognize, but is not.So he makes it his duty to poison the minds of the Tobagoian.History will repeat itself this year wait and see.
112407451T&T Observer said on Monday, Jan 28 at 9:45 PM
THANK YOU for your outstanding column. So long as we have a population that rewards irresponsible politicians, T&T will remain underdeveloped - in every sense of the word. It takes an educated population to focus on the larger issues so necessary to propel the country forward. I feel that the issue of race is the only issue T&T's politicians and population are mentally equipped to handle... and it makes me sad, despite the free education. Trinbagonians have settled in various countries, all over the world. Just think if politicians in all of those countries talk of a ship coming from Tobago. How would Trinbagonians in all of those countries feel? T&T's politicians really need to get with the time and demonstrate a greater level of education, accountability, worldliness and class. Please STOP cashing in on the small island mentality. Because that is exactly what happened in the elections. In the long run, the country and the people SUFFER!!!!!!
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