Keith Rowley has betrayed the sanctity of Parliament

Dear Editor,

The revelation by the Commissioner of Police that the emails which Keith Rowley, then Opposition Leader read in our nations Parliament, accusing the sitting Government of plots to murder journalists, were not authentic, is one of the most embarrassing and unbecoming acts that any Parliamentarian has committed in the history of the Westminster Parliamentary system.

It is totally inapt, insulting and totally disingenuous that someone who was more than a mere representative, but the Leader of the Opposition or head of the shadow Government at that time, carried out such an act which not only degraded but abused the core principles of democracy, freedom, progress and representation which our Republican Parliament stands for.

The Westminster system of Parliament which we practice was created in 1215 by the signing of the Magna Carter to ensure that the views of the average man was represented. Therefore, for any member of Parliament to use dishonest means in an effort to gain political points as Rowley did, not only destroys the sanctity of Parliament but defeats all that has been accomplished over the years to ensure the success of this system.

However this email-gate saga goes beyond the disrespect to the local home of democracy. It really reflects on the integrity and belief system of Dr. Rowley as it shows that his level of integrity is surely not acceptable for someone in public office. Recently, at the PNM family and sports day he lectured youth on the integrity and accountability which public officials must have. Ironically, by his own standards, he is not worthy to be a leader.

Today when our citizens wonder why the Prime Minister is not keeping to his promises with Petrotrin, his promises to curb crime and his general commitment to create a better way of life as stated on the campaign trail, we can see that his track record with these emails demonstrate that his issues and promises were never authentic.

Today, this present government should be thoroughly ashamed to accuse any individual or entity of “fake news” because they are led by an individual who led a campaign on fake emails.

These actions have betrayed the sanctity of Parliament and embarrassed the Prime Minister’s office . There is not doubt that this act of blatant betrayal towards the population demands the resignation of the Prime Minister

Nicholas Morris