Selwyn Ryan calls for more consultations on T&T constitutional reforms

(Trinidad Express) Political scientist Prof Selwyn Ryan yesterday called for the withdrawal of the constitutional reform bills for further consultation.

According to Ryan, the proposed constitutional reform has served to polarise the community.

“The conversations have been based mainly on race, political affiliation, ideology and party membership. Among other things there is also disagreement within the legal fraternity as to whether the proposed changes are constitutional,” stated Ryan.

He said it was clear there is no consensus on any of these issues and that there is need for further consultation.

“My own view is that there is no urgency for the introduction of any of these issues and that the bills should be withdrawn for further consultation. The society is extremely polarised and there is no mutual trust. People are making decisions and taking positions based on racial and political affiliation and not on the basis of what is best for the country,” stated Ryan.