The Silence of PNM’s Women: A Reflection on Gendered Politics in Trinidad and Tobago
In the wake of International Women’s Day (IWD) celebrations, the silence of the People’s National Movement (PNM) frontline women, led by Opposition and political leader Pennelope Beckles, has sparked significant discussion. Just ten days after their prominent participation in the IWD march in Port of Spain, these women have remained notably quiet regarding the overtly sexualised insult directed at them by former political leader and prime minister Dr. Keith Rowley. This silence is not surprising, given the historical context of Dr. Rowley’s tenure, which was marred by inappropriate gendered and sexualised commentary that often went unchallenged by the party and its women’s league.
A Noteworthy Intervention
The contrast between the silence of the PNM’s women and the boldness of former House Speaker Bridgid Annisette-George is striking. During an October 2024 parliamentary session, Annisette-George courageously called out another former PNM prime minister, Stuart Young, for his inappropriate “zami” comment caught on a hot microphone. This moment stands out in history as a rare instance of vocal resistance against the pervasive culture of sexism within the party. It raises questions about why such courage is not more common among the PNM’s female representatives.
The Target of Sexualised Insults
Both instances of sexualised commentary were directed at Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Trinidad and Tobago’s first female Prime Minister. This pattern of disrespect towards women in leadership positions highlights a troubling trend within the PNM, suggesting that the party’s culture may not have evolved sufficiently to support its female leaders. The irony is palpable, especially considering that the current PNM political leader and Leader of the Opposition is a woman—two historic firsts for the party.
Irony in Leadership
In her official IWD 2026 message, Beckles spoke eloquently about women’s solidarity, quoting Rupi Kaur, a modern poet known for her impactful words. Beckles’ message emphasized the sacrifices of women who came before and the responsibility of current leaders to pave the way for future generations. Yet, this message of empowerment stands in stark contrast to the silence surrounding Dr. Rowley’s recent comments, which reflect a continued culture of male arrogance and disrespect.
Dr. Rowley’s Legacy of Arrogance
Dr. Rowley’s nine-plus years as prime minister were characterized by a series of incidents that showcased his arrogance and intimidation tactics. His interactions with the media were often marked by hostility, and he displayed a casual disregard for gender sensitivity. His recent outburst, laden with bitterness over his perceived political irrelevance, further underscores the fragility of his ego. In recounting his political journey, he emphasized his long-standing commitment to the PNM, yet conveniently omitted the party’s declining fortunes under his leadership.
The Decline of PNM’s Political Presence
Under Dr. Rowley’s watch, the PNM has seen a significant decline in parliamentary representation. The number of seats held by the PNM plummeted from 23 in 2015 to just 13 in 2025. In Tobago, the situation is even more dire, with the party going from six seats in January 2021 to none by January 2026. This decline raises critical questions about the effectiveness of Dr. Rowley’s leadership and the overall direction of the PNM.
The Current Leadership’s Responsibility
While Dr. Rowley’s behavior is well-documented, the focus now shifts to the current PNM leadership. The silence of its women leaders in the face of gendered insults is a call to action for them to step up and challenge the status quo. The party’s historical context and the current dynamics present a unique opportunity for change, but it requires vocal and courageous leadership from its female representatives.
In summary, the silence of the PNM’s frontline women in response to Dr. Rowley’s comments reflects a broader issue within the party regarding gender dynamics and the treatment of women in politics. As Trinidad and Tobago navigates its political landscape, the actions and voices of these women will be crucial in shaping a more inclusive and respectful environment for future leaders.
