Selby Wilson, right, secretary general, Caribbean Association of National Telecommunication Organisations (CANTO), listens to Gunther Richter, TrinidadShopping.com director, at the launch at the Hilton Trinidad, Port of Spain, yesterday. Photo: MICHEAL BRUCE 

Manning, Panday lack maturity to solve impasse, says Wilson

By SATEESH MAHARAJ

FORMER finance minister Selby Wilson has said that Prime Minister Patrick Manning and UNC leader Basdeo Panday lacked maturity in resolving the present political impasse.

Speaking with the Express at the launch of TrinidadShopping.com at the Hilton Trinidad yesterday, Wilson also regretted that the situation reached this stage. 

He said: “It is very regrettable that the political situation has degenerated into what it is at the present time. I think the leaders of the main political parties have to show more maturity and responsibility in resolving the political issues of the country. It requires statesman like behaviour and real concern for the country for the leaders to work out a solution in a timely manner.”

The secretary general of CANTO (Caribbean Association of National Telecommunication Organisations) said that the economy was not yet in jeopardy as a result of the stalemate. He warned, however, that failure to resolve the issue could bring harm.

He said: “There is uncertainty but I don’t think that this has been reflected in any economic disaster. The impasse has put the country in a stagnant mode. Stagnation ultimately leads to decline. The economy is fairly strong.”

Wilson voiced optimism when asked to comment on introduction of new political parties in the country. He said: “Maybe it’s a good thing to have additional parties and widen the choice. I hope it works out.”

He did not rule out the possibility of resuming a political life altogether. He added: “I never say no to life. Once I’m living, if there are opportunities and I feel that I can make a contribution then I will do something.”

Wilson was the main presenter at the launch of TrinidadShopping.com, an on-line portal to shopping in this country.