The prime minister’s decision not to sanction Tobago MP Vernella Alleyne-Toppin for the controversial statement she made about Opposition leader Dr Keith Rowley during last Wednesday’s no confidence motion against the Opposition Leader is being supported by Works and Infrastructure Minister Dr Suruj Rambachan.
Addressing the issue during the formal opening of Bridge B2/10 along the Toco Main Road yesterday, Rambachan said, “Personally, I join the Prime Minister in saying that it is a regrettable moment and it’s something we have to learn from. “I think the Prime Minister herself has expressed her own regrets for what was said in the parliament, and I join her in the sentiments she has expressed.”
During her contribution last week, Alleyne-Toppin claimed Rowley was the product of a rape and that he allegedly fathered a child by the same means. One of the claims have since been denied by Roselyn Alleyne, the mother of Rowley’s son Garth, now 43. However, both Rowley’s parents are deceased.
Alleyne-Toppin has been severely criticised for the statements and there have been calls for her resignation or removal. However, the PM on Friday said while she regretted certain parts of the statements, she would not sanction the Tobago MP. Questioned about the appropriateness of raising such issues in the House, Rambachan said, “Sometimes, in the cut and thrust of politics, these things happen and what we all have to do is learn from these experiences and to ensure we do not repeat these kinds of errors of the past.”
Confident that the matter will continue to be investigated, Rambachan added, “At the end of the day, people will form their own judgments.” Pressed to say what his personal view on the matter was, Rambachan replied, “I don't think there are other comments to make, it has played out in the public space as it has.”