It is being billed as the Great Debate between Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Opposition leader Dr Keith Rowley. But up to news time there was no confirmation from Persad-Bissessar and Rowley about the anticipated appearance at the event, which is being hosted by the T&T Debates Commission.
Two months ago, the Debates Commission said it would announce the dates for the two debate after the election date was given. On June 12, Persad-Bissessar announced September 7 date as election day in the country, but no dates have as yet been released for the debates.
A release from the commission yesterday said the debates create a structured and dignified forum for such dialogue, outside of the usual rhetoric-filled frenzy of political rallies.
It added that the commission was pleased to advise that it has completed its first round of discussions with political parties in the upcoming general election debates.
It said it was “encouraged by the strong expressions of interest from all sides and is confident that this augurs well for a meaningful event.
The commission said it was actively seeking sponsorship for the debates and is encouraging businesses, organisations as well as individuals to invest in the event as a means of educating the public and heightening awareness of the challenges of governance and leadership in T&T.
The T&TDC release said its primary objective, since being established five years ago, was “to strengthen the democratic process by staging electoral debates on matters of national importance to assist the electorate in making informed political choices.”
The T&TDC said: “Our aim is to bring T&T’s election process into the 21st- century by making it possible for the public to hear the policies and plans of the Leaders of parties that are seeking to form the government.”
Chairman of the commission, Andrew Sabga said, “With the feedback we have now received, we believe that we have a path forward for these historic elections’ debates to take place.”
Sabga further stated: “It is our intention to create a significant media event that provides an open and fully transparent format that gives political leaders the opportunity to connect with all members of the national community in an unprecedented way.”