19/03/2025
Progressive Party Will Not Contest the 2025 General Election
Despite repeated calls for the Progressive Party and me to contest the 2025 General Elections in Trinidad and Tobago, the unfortunate reality is that this is not possible at this time.
When we launched the Progressive Party in 2019, it was with the firm belief that Trinidad and Tobago deserved a genuine alternative to governance. We dared to challenge the entrenched two-party system, convinced that our twin-island republic had space for diverse voices in leadership and nation-building. Our goal was not simply to remove an administration from office but to inject fresh, youthful perspectives into the national discourse.
In the 2020 General Elections, amid a global pandemic and a compressed campaign period, we put forward a single candidacy in San Fernando West. While we did not secure the majority of votes, we walked away with invaluable lessons—some inspiring, others harsh.
One of the most sobering realities we encountered was that electoral success is heavily dependent on financial resources. Trinidad and Tobago’s electoral system requires stronger regulations and reforms to level the playing field—a point even acknowledged by a former Prime Minister through the Representation of the People (Amendment) Bill, 2020. Regrettably, nearly five years later, that bill remains stalled in a Joint Select Committee of Parliament.
Another hard truth was the lack of accessible guidance for those seeking to contest elections independently. Without experienced advisors or deep institutional knowledge, navigating the political landscape can be extremely challenging. While our team was never short on vision or passion, our limited experience in the electoral process undoubtedly affected our chances.
Since the 2020 elections, the Progressive Party has worked to stay engaged with communities, remain relevant, and prepare for future elections. We have collaborated with like-minded political entities that share our vision for a better Trinidad and Tobago. However, the reality remains that without transparent and sustainable financing, young people are often left with little choice but to assimilate into larger, established political parties if they wish to participate in governance.
Historically, independent candidates and smaller parties have struggled to gain traction in our national elections. The prevailing narrative suggests that third parties merely "split votes" or are ineffective unless they secure multiple parliamentary seats. Until we implement meaningful electoral and political reforms, our governance options will remain largely unchanged—excluding some of the brightest and most capable individuals from contributing to national leadership.
As the nation prepares to vote on April 28, 2025, we must all take our civic responsibility seriously. I encourage every citizen to engage with all candidates, scrutinise their policies, challenge their perspectives, and hold them accountable. Let us amplify diverse voices and ensure that no one is left unheard in the decision-making process.
While it remains the ambition of the Progressive Party to serve the people of Trinidad and Tobago, and my personal desire to represent the constituents of San Fernando West, we do not currently have the necessary resources to mount a competitive campaign. Nevertheless, we remain steadfast in our commitment to advocating for young people and marginalised communities and championing the issues that matter most.
This election season should not divide us but instead unify us in our shared pursuit of progress. As we cast our votes, may we do so with wisdom, integrity, and the collective ambition to shape a stronger, more inclusive Trinidad and Tobago.
May this election be won—not by any single party—but by the people of our great nation.
Nikoli Edwards
Political Leader
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