Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles says the Opposition is prepared to work with the Government to tackle crime following the Belmont killings that left two-year-old Akini Kafi, his father Akil Kafi, and Anthony Wilson dead.
In a statement today, Beckles said crime had become a national crisis that continued to devastate families and communities across Trinidad and Tobago.
“I maintain the position of the Opposition that we stand ready to work with the Government to address this scourge. The safety of our citizens must come before politics, and the wellbeing of our youth demands responsible leadership from all sides,” she said.
Beckles expressed condolences to the grieving families and said the entire country was mourning the tragedy.
“As the nation and another community has been plunged into mourning, I wish to express my deepest condolences to the families of two-year-old Akini Kafi, his father Akil Kafi, and Anthony Wilson. Their loss is heartbreaking, and the entire country grieves with them,” she said.
The Opposition Leader called on citizens and political leaders to rise above division and unite against crime.
“Crime knows no politician, no party, and no colour. It is a national crisis that continues to destroy families and communities across Trinidad and Tobago,” she said.
Beckles also condemned inflammatory comments made by a junior government minister following the killings, saying political grandstanding and insensitive rhetoric had no place while families mourned.
“Those comments bring no comfort to grieving families and contribute nothing to the urgent task of addressing violence in our society,” she said.
She urged the country to return to stronger community values and provide young people with opportunity, guidance and hope instead of fear and despair.
“I pray for Trinidad and Tobago. I pray for the families in mourning, and I pray for wisdom, unity, and compassion to guide us through this difficult moment,” Beckles said.
