go to the polls to elect a new government. Young, the former Minister of Energy and Energy Industries, replaced 75-year-old Dr Keith Rowley, who stepped down from office after nine and a half years and ending 45 years of active politics.

“As we begin this new chapter together, this is my commitment to you. I will lead with integrity, inclusion and accountability”,  Young said soon after he was sworn in to office by President Christine Kangaloo. “We will harness our unique strength, diversity and aspiration to build a future where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive. We will put aside differences, leverage our collective experiences and expertise and champion the necessary reforms to transform and strengthen our nation”,  said Young, who said he would be naming his new cabinet later on Monday.

Former planning and development minister, Camille Robinson Regis, was sworn in as Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs. Young told the ceremony, attended by his parents, other relatives as well as his two sons, that the cultural and religious diversity of Trinidad and Tobago “offers us a powerful way forward, a new chapter for Trinidad and Tobago.” Young, who must name the date for the general election by constitutionally due by November this year, said he believes in Trinidad and Tobago and it’s people. “Nowhere else in the world where such profound and dynamic blend of cultural religious diversity that not only co-exists, but strives, shapes and strengthens a collective national identity.”

“It is this very foundation, our national unity, built on respect, inclusion and shared purpose along with our fighting spirit that I believe holds the power to propel our nation forward. It is also the very foundation that shaped a boy born on Upper Henry Street in Port of Spain, into the person who stands before you today, honoured to be the Prime Minister.” He said his parents, which included the former managing director of Scotia Bank, had taught him to work hard, serve others and to take on injustices, “when I had the power to make a difference.” (Kaieteur News/CMC)