Opposition Leader and political leader of the People’s National Movement (PNM), Pennelope Beckles, has acknowledged the party’s crushing defeat in last night’s Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections, as the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) swept all 15 electoral districts to secure a second consecutive term in office.

In a statement issued following the declaration of results, Beckles congratulated Chief Secretary Farley Augustine and the successful TPP candidates, while conceding that the PNM had suffered a major setback.

“The low voter turnout speaks to the level of public satisfaction,” Beckles said, adding that the PNM understands the need for serious reflection as it works toward rebuilding the party and regaining the trust and confidence of the Tobagonian electorate.