Fellow citizens, today, Trinidad and Tobago commemorates the achievement of Republican status and from all indications we shall soon welcome our regional neighbour Barbados into the fold of Caribbean countries who have dared to go it alone. Republican status is the ultimate milestone in the long road to self-determination. In arriving at that significant waypost on 1st August 1976, we the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago signalled to the world our readiness and confidence to chart our own course and assume full command of our destiny.
Independence, attained in 1962, was a manifestation of our growing assurance and self-reliance. Republican status was our coming of age at which full responsibility for public affairs was placed squarely on the shoulders of the people. The Republican Constitution created new and important offices including that of President, Director of Public Prosecutions and Ombudsman, as well as a number of Service Commissions. We became autonomous in every way, but for our final court of appeal which remains the Privy Council. These accomplishments cemented Trinidad and Tobago’s identity as a sovereign, adult nation.
Although we have attained the figurative age of majority, it is critical that we continue to grow and develop to realise our potential. Taking ownership of all decisions, whether good or bad, is an exercise of the maturity and sense of duty inherent in Republican status. Failures and mistakes along the way are but teachable moments from which we learn to become better versions of ourselves.
The lack of cooperation of a recalcitrant few with the Covid-19 pandemic guidelines serves as a stark example of immaturity and impetuosity in assuming the responsibilities of nationhood. Mature individuals make sacrifices, bear momentary inconveniences and are prepared to forgo many features of daily life such as limes, dining out, beach outings and extended family gatherings. Delayed gratification, the ability to postpone an immediate gain in favour of greater and later reward, is a fundamental gauge of adulthood.
A responsible approach is critical and required of us all, especially holders of high office and profile whose conduct sets tone and pattern for others. Temperance, civility, respect for office, and a quiet word are all hallmarks of the wisdom and good judgement expected of ‘big people’. Our Republican status embodies those qualities.
The conferment of National Awards recognises those individuals who, in their respective fields, exemplify the tenets of our Republic, placing country before self and making innumerable contributions and sacrifices for the wellbeing of all. Unfortunately, the 2020 ceremony has had to be postponed owing to Covid-19 restrictions but it will take place in some form, not simply because of convention, but more importantly, because of its role in inspiring our citizens to emulate the achievements of our very own exemplars.
However, even in the absence of pomp and ceremony, we can individually bring to mind and salute those citizens whom we know and know of that have made, and continue to make, significant contributions to our national wellbeing, especially at this time, healthcare and other essential workers. They have been at it non-stop since February in true and faithful service to the nation and this we know at great cost to themselves, physically, financially and psychologically.
Coming-of-age celebrations are de rigeur, but the celebrants understand that it is the end of one phase, and more importantly, the beginning of another—one which involves continuous development and learning, making wise choices, exercising self-control and practising self-denial when necessary. In the context of a nation, the expectations are not much different, save for the fact that we look to the collective for these indications and to do that, let us look in the mirror.
Full and consistent participation in the ever-evolving process of nation-building is required to secure a bright, resilient and prosperous future for ourselves and generations to come. I extend sincere wishes to my fellow citizens of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago for a safe, happy and healthy Republic Day.
Related Posts
Facebook Feed
17,885
The Office of the President of the Republic of T&T
The official Facebook Page of The Office of the President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
Mr. Efthmyios Efthymiades, Ambassador-designate of the Hellenic Republic (Greece) to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, presented his credentials to Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo ORTT, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, on October 15, 2024 at The President's House. Her Excellency welcomed the Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago and wished him every success in his new post.
... See MoreSee Less
In delivering the feature address at the Sangre Grande Ramleela Committee's 34th Annual Ramleela Celebrations 2024 on Sunday October 13, 2024, Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo, ORTT, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, congratulated the committee on the hosting of the cultural event, and the fact that of the 175 players, 120 were young persons from various schools in the community, Her Excellency expressed, "How lucky we are in this country to be able to have all our citizens, of every religious persuasion, of every class, colour and creed, participate in this truly amazing Festival. Ramleela is a cultural, social and spiritual phenomenon which has enriched Trinidad and Tobago for many years. It is a time when entire communities come together to re-enact the life and times of Sri Ram as chronicled in the Ramayan. It is a wonderful opportunity for young people to become immersed in our religious and cultural traditions, and to have the opportunity to one day carry them forward. It is a time for everyone, the Hindus and non-Hindus alike, to reflect on and identify with many of the themes and moral lessons found throughout the story." #ramleela2024 #SangreGrande #officeofthepresidentt
... See MoreSee Less
The Office of the President of the Republic of T&T
The Office of the President of the Republic of T&T is with Trinidad and Tobago Blind Welfare Association 1914.
6 days ago
Message from His Excellency Kerwyn Garcia S.C., First Gentleman and Patron of the Trinidad and Tobago Blind Welfare Associationon White Cane Safety Day 2024—October 15, 2024Today, the nation and the rest of the world commemorate White Cane Safety Day. Observed annually on October 15th, White Cane Safety Day was first proclaimed and celebrated in the United States in 1964 and has since gained recognition worldwide. White Cane Safety Day serves to raise awareness about the use of the white cane as a tool of mobility and a symbol of independence and resilience for the blind and visually-impaired.The origins of the white cane date back to 1921 when James Briggs, a photographer from Bristol, United Kingdom, claimed to have invented it to enhance his visibility to motorists and pedestrians around his home. Throughout the 1930s, the use of white canes by the blind or visually impaired became more widespread in the United Kingdom, France, and the United States.In Trinidad and Tobago, as well as around the world, the white cane is used by the blind or visually-impaired as a tool for safe and reliable navigation. The white cane enhances mobility by providing users with tactile feedback about their surroundings, allowing them to detect obstacles, changes in surface texture, and other important information that facilitates safe travel. The white cane also signals to both pedestrians and motorists that the user is blind or visually impaired. It is important to recognize that the white cane is more than a mobility aid - it also embodies independence, resilience and hope. It empowers blind and visually impaired individuals to navigate the world with confidence and certainty. It serves as a reminder that everyone has the right to move through our world with dignity and safety.As patron of the Trinidad and Tobago Blind Welfare Association, I stand in full support of the Association’s efforts to advocate for the rights and dignity of persons who are blind or visually-impaired in Trinidad and Tobago. On this White Cane Safety Day, let us all take the opportunity to recognise and support our fellow citizens as they strive to participate in our society on a full and equal basis. #WhiteCaneSafetyDay #blindwelfareassociation #patronage #officeofthepresidentt
... See MoreSee Less
#mondayinspiration Strength through adversity #ICYMI As we recognize Cancer Month, The Sunday Newsday ran an inspiring story of how Her Excellency Christina Carla Kangaloo ORTT, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago found her inner strength in the face of one of the most difficult times in her life. Here is an excerpt from the story by Carol Quash and you can click on the link for full story.TWENTY years ago, President Christine Carla Kangaloo came face to face with her mortality in the form of breast cancer.And although getting rid of the invasive and unwelcome visitor came with a myriad of challenges, it also taught her life lessons she might not have learned otherwise.“It did change my life," she said. "I would say it has strengthened me and made me deeply appreciative of life.“It showed me that there was strength I had that I didn't know I had; it taught me resilience; it taught me to lean on other people,” which can sometimes be difficult for women who are not used to allowing other people to see their susceptibility.
... See MoreSee Less
President Kangaloo: Cancer made me stronger - Trinidad and Tobago Newsday
TWENTY years ago, President Christine Carla Kangaloo came face to face with her mortality in the form of breast cancer.
The Office of the President of the Republic of T&T
The Office of the President of the Republic of T&T updated their cover photo.
1 week ago
The Office of the President of the Republic of T&T's cover photo
... See MoreSee Less