“As of midnight tonight, there is change on the island of Tobago.”

This was how the PDP’s Farley Augustine opened his victory speech as the Progressive Democratic Patriots managed to win all 15 electoral districts in Monday’s Tobago House of Assembly election.

Earlier counts at the polls had put the win at 12-3, but as more ballots were counted, it was proven the PNM was unsuccessful in any of the seats.

This means for the first time in over 20 years, a new party will lead the people of Tobago.

Delivering his victory speech late Monday night, the PDP’s Farley Augustine said the party’s win is testament to the rejection of Trinidad and Tobago’s bullying culture in politics.

“We in Tobago have rejected your bullying tactics… And so, Mr. Prime Minister, even before we get to Thursday’s swearing in, I want to say to you that hope we can have a cordial relationship. Because country must come before party and country must come before self. I urge you- do not spite Tobago, because the Tobagonians I know are also mighty enough to get rid of you. Let that be a warning that you ought to respond to us in a dignified manner,” Augustine said to cheers. 

Pledging to govern the THA with greater accountability and transparency while weeding out corruption, Farley lamented that for far too long, Tobago and Tobagonians have been placed on the back burner and their potential for progress squandered by greedy politicians.

“We have been behind for far too long. Mr. Prime Minister you are not Prime Minister for the PNM, you are Prime Minister for all of Trinidad and Tobago,” Augustine said, as he extended an olive branch to Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley for central government to seek the best interest of Tobagonians. 

Tracy Concedes: “The people of Tobago have spoken”

Political Leader of the PNM Tracy Davidson-Celestine, speaking moments before Augustine delivered is victory speech, conceded defeat. 

“I would like to congratulate the PDP and their leadership on winning this election and I wish them all the best in the upcoming term of office in the THA. As for us on this side, of course we are saddened by this loss, but at the same time this is an opportunity for us to regroup and do our introspection and look at new ways we can appeal or appease the public out there,” Davidson-Celestine said.

Official election results, including final poll numbers, are expected to be disseminated by the Elections and Boundaries Commission on Tuesday.