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Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has responded to Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s weekend comments, which dismissed Beckles’ criticisms with a scathing rebuke.

Beckles had accused the Prime Minister of “gaslighting” citizens by imposing measures that will bring economic hardship and “bleed” the pockets of ordinary Trinidadians and Tobagonians through what she described as “secret” revenue-generating initiatives. She called on Persad-Bissessar to reverse the measures, which include higher fines, taxes, and fees.

Responding, the Prime Minister said there would be no reversal and reaffirmed her commitment to “cleaning up this country.” Persad-Bissessar insisted that none of the measures were hidden, noting they had been clearly outlined in the budget and Finance Bill. She criticised Beckles’ parliamentary competence, stating that the Opposition Leader had failed to properly address key legislative matters.