The independent candidates in the 2025 general election say they prefer to be free to focus on the people and represent them in the ways they should be, instead of being constrained by party politics.

Vivian Johnson, who is contesting the Port of Spain North/St Ann’s West seat, told Newsday his first foray into politics was two years ago when he ran for councillor for Belmont South in the local government election. He received 128 votes, more than some smaller political parties that contested the election.

The father of five and grandfather of three recalled how former Cumuto/Manzanilla MP Dr Rai Ragbir was ridiculed and then dismissed after breaking with the UNC ranks and “voting with his conscience” by siding with the government on the whistleblower bill.