The ruling People’s National Movement (PNM)

has claimed victory in Trinidad and Tobago’s general elections held yesterday,

August 10.

The Keith Rowley-led PNM claimed 22 of the 41

seats available in he House of Representatives, one seat fewer than it held in

the last elections five years ago.

Addressing the nation from Balisier House

last evening, Prime Minister Rowley said the victory was a difficult one. It has not

been, was not an easy win but the PNM stayed the course and once again has been

called to provide the people of Trinidad and Tobago with good governance that

it expects from the People’s National Movement. In a difficult situation PNM

has been once again called to service for Trinidad and Tobago.”

Despite winning a second term in office, the

Prime Minister hinted that the next couple of years will be difficult for the

twin-island republic. “Our projections are that the next two years will

be difficult, very difficult, but during that period we are required to do

certain things that will put us in a better position to enjoy the rest of that

future which is guaranteed to us,” Rowley said.

He also added that this may be his last time

contesting a general election, saying he is “not one of those politicians who

believe when you come into office, you should go out feet first.”

Rowley added, “This is my period to ensure that

the young people I have been mentoring that they move into greater

respo0nsibility during that period. So Trinidad and Tobago this is a period of

transition but I will not shirk my responsibility to the people of Trinidad and

Tobago who have elected me for this five year period.”