Dear Editor,
On April 30th, 1989, in the midst of rain and difficult conditions, a group of determined citizens gathered in Aranguez to support the formation of a new political movement. That moment, now widely remembered as the “Mud in Aranguez” has come to symbolize resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring pursuit of representation in Trinidad and Tobago.
The United National Congress (UNC) would go on to play a defining role in the nation’s political landscape, producing two Prime Ministers: the late Basdeo Panday and Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC, the country’s first female Prime Minister. Yet, beyond its electoral achievements, the UNC’s story is rooted in a deeper history of struggle, organization, and grassroots activism.
The party’s origins lie in the labour movement, particularly among oilfield and sugar workers who mobilized under Mr. Panday through the United Labour Front (ULF). Their efforts were not merely political, they were driven by a demand for dignity, equity, and a greater voice in national affairs.
In 1986, these forces joined others to form the National Alliance for Reconstruction (NAR), which assumed government. However, internal divisions soon emerged, shaped by differences in policy direction, leadership, and broader social tensions. By 1988, those divisions led to a split. Mr. Panday and his colleagues broke away, forming Club 88, the immediate precursor to the UNC.
The events of April 30th, 1989 marked the culmination of political transformation. Despite adverse conditions, supporters stood firm, laying the foundation for what would become one of the country’s most influential political parties. The “Mud in Aranguez” remains a powerful reminder that meaningful political change is often forged under pressure. For many citizens, this history is not abstract, it is lived.
My father was among those present in Aranguez that day. He later served as a UNC councillor for Aranguez/Warner Village under both Mr. Panday and Mrs. Persad-Bissessar. His journey reflects a commitment to public service rooted in community engagement and political conviction. It is a legacy that continues to inform my own understanding of service and responsibility, as I forge my own path in public service.
Engagement with longstanding stalwarts of the party, many of whom remain active today, often deepens my own insight into the UNC’s history and development. Their experiences highlight the sacrifices made in its formative years and reinforce the importance of preserving that institutional memory.
At a time when political discourse can often feel disconnected from history, reflecting on moments like the “Mud in Aranguez” is essential. It underscores the reality that progress is rarely immediate and that the foundations of leadership are built through persistence, unity, and shared purpose.
As Trinidad and Tobago continues to navigate an evolving political landscape, the legacy of the UNC, from its roots in labour to its role in national leadership, remains a significant chapter in the country’s democratic journey.
It is a reminder that collective action, grounded in principle, can shape the course of a nation.
Yours ,
Deochand Ramjit Singh
