“The UNC is the only alternative to the PNM with a proven track record to tackle crime and unemployment.” These were the words of Saddam Hosein, the Member of Parliament for Barataria. Saddam. Hosein was speaking at the Barataria’s Eid Bazaar & Family Day held on May 15 at the Don Miguel Recreation Ground to coincide with the International Day of the Families of the United Nations.
“Eid is about family and unity and bringing back old traditions and values,” said the Member of Parliament.
Asked about crime in the country, Saddam Hosein believed that “an immediate action to stem the rising crime rate is to fire the Minister of National Security,” and added that “the government needs to invest in social services and job creation. If not addressed, youths are going to fall victims to criminal gangs.”
Asked what pressing issues are affecting the constituents of Barataria, the MP identified the following: crime, unemployment and lack of housing and called for equity in the distribution of houses. He lamented the fact that the HDC is not equitable in the distribution of houses and that there should be no political favoritism.
Many stalls were on display selling foods and providing games. There was also the merry-go-round that attracted numerous kids. Other kids stepped forward and recited poems and received prizes from the MP. And no Eid is celebrated without sawine which was distributed to all.
Present at the Eid Bazaar & Family Day were Doreen John and Enal ‘Bindool’ Bunsee, two stalwarts of the UNC. Both shared with me their struggles to build a UNC base in Barataria. “The UNC has come a long way since and much work has to be done to keep the constituency within the UNC block,’ said Bindool.
Dorreen John lamented that she felt forgotten by the UNC ‘but I continue to give my support to the rising sun.”