Trinidad and Tobago Votes Amid Crime, Economic Challenges

Voters in Trinidad and Tobago went to the polls in a closely contested parliamentary election, driven by concerns over soaring crime rates and economic challenges. The election, which followed the resignation of longtime Prime Minister Keith Rowley and the appointment of Stuart Young, pits Young's ruling People's National Movement (PNM) against former Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar's United National Congress (UNC). Persad-Bissessar has campaigned on promises of higher public wages and stronger anti-crime measures, while Young has criticized her proposals as financially unsustainable. The country faces a severe security crisis, with one of the highest murder rates globally, much of it linked to organized crime and gang violence. Both parties have pledged reforms: the UNC proposes new ministries for defense and justice, while the PNM promises governance modernization and public safety improvements. The outcome will determine whether a single party forms the next government or if a coalition becomes necessary amid heightened public dissatisfaction and anxiety.