Kamla Persad Bissessar's UNC party wins Trinidad and Tobago election

Voters in the Caribbean island nation of Trinidad and Tobago have voted for the opposition party, the United National Congress (UNC), led by Kamla Persad-Bissessar, and ousted the ruling People’s National Movement party from power. Kamla Persad Bissessar was the Prime Minister of the country from 2010 to 2015. She is also the first woman to serve as Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago.

Parliamentary election in Trinidad and Tobago 

An election was held in Trinidad and Tobago on April 28, 2025, to elect the 41 members of the House of Representatives for a new five-year term.

The Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago is bicameral, with the Senate serving as the Upper House and the House of Representatives as the lower house.

The members of the House of Representatives are elected by the people directly. 

According to the preliminary result, the United National Congress has won a majority in the House of Representatives. The ruling People’s National Movement conceded defeat in the election.

73-year-old Kamla Persad-Bissessar faced Prime Minister Stuart Young in the election.  Stuart Young was appointed as the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago in March 2025 after Keith Rowley stepped down after 10 years as Prime Minister.

Emergency and Criminals in Trinidad and Tobago 

Trinaidad and Tobago, which is known for its carnival, nature and sandy beaches, is one of the most dangerous countries in the world. Around 623 murders were committed in 2024, with a murder rate of  37 per 100,000 people.

The country has the sixth-highest murder rate in the world, making it one of the most dangerous countries in the world.

To control the violent crimes, the government imposed an emergency in the country in December 2024.

Economic crisis 

Trinaidad and Tobago is also dependent on the export of natural gas. However, due to a decline in natural gas prices, its economy is facing troubles.

American President Donald Trump cancelled two licenses for the development of offshore natural gas projects between Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela. This has also had an adverse impact on the country’s economy.

About Trinidad and Tobago 

Trinidad and Tobago is an island country consisting of two main islands: Trinidad and Tobago.

It is situated in the Caribbean Sea, near the South American continent.

After British rule in the country in 1802, indentured labourers were brought from India to work in the sugar plantation.

Approximately 37% of the country’s population is of Indian origin.

It gained independence from Britain in 1962.

It has a parliamentary form of government, with the Prime Minister serving as the head of government.

Capital: Port of Spain

Currency: Trinidadian Dollar 

President: Christine Kangaloo