Under fire UNC MP, Dr Rai Ragbir, is standing by his decision to break ranks and vote with the PNM on the Whistleblower Protection Bill last week Friday in Parliament.
Instead, Dr Ragbir has denied that the UNC held any parliamentary caucus to discuss voting on the bill.
He further denied statements by Chief Whip David Lee and Dr. Roodal Moonilal accusing him of neglecting to attend parliamentary caucus meetings. Dr Ragbir said, "...it would be better for the Party and the citizenry, if these politically seasoned gentlemen stop misleading the population by suggesting that a fan club of ‘yes persons’ gathering in the ‘Opposition Chamber room and casually old talking mere minutes before a parliamentary session can be elevated to a parliamentary caucus."
As the disciplinary arm of the party readies to investigate Dr Ragibir's breaking of ranks, he questioned the "tragic irony." He said the disciplinary committee, which has long been defunct, "has now seemingly sprung into action—not to address members charged with crimes or those facing serious allegations of corruption or human trafficking, but rather to deal with my vote on a bill meant to fight corruption."
Dr Ragbir also addressed plans by the Sangre Grande Regional Corporation to lead demonstrations against him.
While accepting their right to protest, Dr Ragbir said it was because of the problems of that corporation he decided to vote for the Whistleblower Protection Bill.
"The primary reason I voted in favour of this bill is the numerous concerns expressed by individuals regarding certain actions within the Sangre Grande Regional Corporation. Many people were afraid to report these matters to the police. I have no doubt that this legislation will benefit the people of Cumuto/Manzanilla and the entire country," he stated.
Dr Ragbir said he continues to pray for the party.