By Denzil James
In a world often shaken by defeat, betrayal, and relentless criticism, Kamla Persad-Bissessar stands as a living emblem of resilience and determination. Her recent electoral victory in 2025, leading the United National Congress (UNC) back to governance, marks not only a political comeback but a deeply human story of persistence against all odds.
Having suffered two general election defeats—first in 2015 and again in 2020, many political observers had counted her out. Internally, she faced relentless challenges to her leadership within the UNC itself. Externally, she was often the target of disparaging attacks from high-profile figures like OWTU’s Ancel Roget, who once ridiculed her with a now-infamous mannequin stunt; Austin “Jack” Warner, whose political ambitions once rivaled her own; and Phillip Edward Alexander, a vocal critic of her past administration, among others who once denounced her, now acknowledge her leadership with a degree of humility, accepting her as the singular authority to guide the nation forward.
In 2025, Kamla emerged not merely as a survivor but as a victorious leader, one who has regained the mandate of the people and the respect of her critics.
Though she never achieved the symbolic feat of defeating a Dr. Keith Rowley led, People’s National Movement (PNM) in a general election, her current victory is even more significant. It comes not from facing a weakened opponent but from rebuilding trust, reclaiming relevance, and reasserting her place in national leadership after years in political wilderness, especially with the theme, “When UNC Win, Everybody Wins”.
Kamla has wasted no time signaling that this term will be different. “I was too soft,” she admitted, referencing her previous stint as Prime Minister, a rare moment of introspection from a political leader. That tone of firmness has since echoed in her public appearances. When senior journalist Akash Samaroo posed a seemingly misplaced question about UNC MPs contributing to the Children’s Life Fund, Kamla cut in sharply, sending a message: gone is the overly accommodating persona of yesteryear. In another moment of clarity, she redirected media questions about property tax refunds to Finance Minister Davenand Tancoo, emphasizing both chain of command and her unwillingness to entertain ambiguity. This followed her firm stance that no refunds will be issued for taxes collected under the previous administration, a statement that surprised even her supporters with its decisiveness.
Even controversial decisions have showcased her newfound resolve. When her government moved to restrict the movements of Jamaican dancehall artist Vybz Kartel during his proposed visit to Trinidad, she stood by her Defence Minister and affirmed the decision was made under her advisement. In doing so, she sent a message that she would not shy away from making unpopular decisions in the name of state integrity.
For many, Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s return is more than a political event, it is a symbol. A symbol for anyone who has ever felt ridiculed, underestimated, or betrayed. Her journey reflects the possibility of regrowth and reassertion after seasons of criticism and loss. She didn’t merely survive; she reinvented herself, commanded renewed respect, and walked back into the halls of power with her head held high.
Her story is not just about political endurance; it is about personal strength. In Kamla Persad-Bissessar, the people of Trinidad and Tobago, and indeed the wider Caribbean, can find an enduring reminder: That even when the world seems to crumble around you, with determination, grace, and a refusal to bow to defeat, one can rise again.