Trinidad and Tobago voters head to polls for wildly unpredictable election

theguardian.comPublished: 4/28/2025

Summary

The high-stakes parliamentary election in Trinidad and Tobago is unpredictable, shaped by escalating crime rates, economic challenges tied to Trump's policies, and deepening political tensions between the ruling Progressive National Movement (PNM) and UNC. The election was triggered by Keith Rowley’s resignation, leading Stuart Young to dissolve parliament, dissolve the government, and call an election for his leadership. UNC’s Kamla Persad-Bissessar, a 73-year-old with decades of experience, faces internal turmoil and repeated electoral defeats but boasts a loyal base campaigning against crime and cost-of-living issues, as high crime rates remain a key factor in the race.