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MEDIA RELEASE - January 3rd, 2026

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STATEMENT ON THE COUNCIL'S MONITORING

 

In continuing its monitoring of the 2026 Tobago House of Assembly Election campaign, the Council for Responsible Political Behaviour is pleased to report that, thus far, the campaign has been largely clean and in keeping with the Code of Ethical Political Conduct. The Council noted that in the cut and thrust of a political campaign there have been allegations and statements made on political platforms which may have raised concerns, but we note that many of these are in keeping with “our political culture which includes picong.” Moreover, the various political parties have attempted to either refute or rebuke such, in very pleasing language, thereby further affirming that the campaign remains clean.

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As we approach the last week of campaigning, the Council acknowledges that while the Political Parties and the Candidates may seek to uphold the tenets of the Code, there may be the tendency for some supporters to become overenthusiastic in their campaigning and this may lead to possible breaches of the Code. To this end, the Council calls on all political parties to remind their supporters that they should ensure that:

  • All private and public property rights are respected.

  • Not deface, or induce anyone to unlawfully remove or destroy, or deface the billboards, placards, posters or any other election materials of a Party or Candidate.

  • Not make false or defamatory allegations in print or speech in connection with an election in respect of a Party, its Candidates, representatives or members.

  • Not use language or act in a way that may a) Provoke violence; or b) Intimidate Candidates, members of Parties, representatives or supporters of Parties or Candidates, or voters; or c) Invite, encourage or foster hatred, resentment or any form of violence.

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Members of the public are again invited to visit the Council’s website at www.politicalethicstt.org to view

the Code in its entirety and collaborate with the Council by submitting reports, not only of possible

breaches, but also of instances where the Code is being upheld, by sending a message via WhatsApp 793

4505 or via email to info@politicalethicstt.org.

 

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the Council,

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Leela Ramdeen,

Secretary

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