PRIME Minister Kamla Persad-­Bissessar says Trinidad and Tobago is blessed to enjoy democratic freedoms, as she lamen­ted that in some neighbouring countries, citizens continue to face tyranny and oppression.

In her Christmas message to the nation yesterday, Persad-­Bissessar did not name any country specifically, but it was clear she was referring to Venezuela as she noted that many citizens there are forced to flee their homeland.

“In Trinidad and Tobago, Christmas is a beloved national festival that reflects our rich diversity and cherished democratic freedoms. Homes are filled with light and music. Families support one another and look forward with hope, made possible because we are free to worship, gather, and live without fear,” she said.