T&T Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley announces plans to resign

Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley announced yesterday that he will resign before the end of the current term of his People’s National Movement (PNM), set to conclude by August this year.

Dr Rowley, 75, who led the PNM to victory in 2020 with 22 of 41 parliamentary seats, stated his intention to step down after 45 years in public service.

Speaking in Tobago, he said, “Forty-five years is a long time. I will not be offering myself again to represent anyone in Trinidad or Tobago. I’ve fulfilled my commitment.”

A volcanologist by training with a doctorate in geology and geochemistry, Rowley entered politics in 1981, becoming the only PNM candidate to contest elections in both Tobago and Trinidad.

Reflecting on his journey, he recalled humble beginnings planting grass on Tobago’s Hope Estate for seven dollars a day, later transitioning to teaching and then politics.

Dr Rowley emphasised the transition within the PNM, mentoring young leaders to ensure the party’s future.

“This is my period to ensure that young people take on greater responsibility. I have a duty to prepare them for leadership,” he stated.

Significant challenges

During his tenure, Rowley managed significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. He expressed relief at recent Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) reports dismissing rumours of another outbreak. “We don’t want to go through another COVID,” he said.

Addressing criticism of public officials, Rowley lamented a decline in societal civility, saying, “Relentless attacks fueled by hate and vitriol have overshadowed meaningful contributions to national development.” Nonetheless, he highlighted the achievements of young leaders he introduced to politics, many of whom are poised to take the country forward.

As Prime Minister since 2015, Rowley’s leadership has spanned various portfolios. He reiterated his earlier commitment not to seek re-election, stating, “I meant it, and I’ve kept it. Before the end of this term, I will resign this office and spend time with my family.”

Concluding his announcement, Rowley thanked his supporters, particularly the constituents of Diego Martin West, who have stood by him since 1991.

He left the news conference without taking questions, marking the end of an era in Trinidad and Tobago’s politics.