In his New Year’s Day message to the nation, Rowley highlighted the importance of resilience in the face of the current State of Emergency, which has been implemented to combat escalating crime.

   The Prime Minister emphasised the need for decisive action to restore balance and protect the fundamental rights of law-abiding citizens from criminal elements.

   “While we cherish our fundamental rights and freedoms, the State must act decisively when murder, home invasions, kidnappings, and extortion become normalised,” the Prime Minister said.

   “These actions threaten the peace and security of our nation, and we must address them collectively.”

   Reflecting on the dual nature of human emotions, the Prime Minister acknowledged that fear and hope coexist but stressed the importance of sustaining hope as a moral virtue.

   “We understand that some citizens may, at some point, hold fears about the direction of the country, rather than hope, but I urge that they try to imagine how intolerable and shattering our lives would be without that virtue of hope.”

   The Prime Minister also underscored the nation’s progress in navigating economic challenges, noting that T&T is on a path of sustained growth.

   The country recorded its third consecutive year of real GDP growth in 2024, with the International Monetary Fund projecting a 2.3 per cent growth rate for 2025.

   He said, encouragingly, the non-energy sector is driving economic recovery, with the Heritage and Stabilisation Fund standing at over US$6 billion and foreign reserves at US$5.4 billion. He highlighted a low inflation rate of 0.2 per cent as of October 2024 and a steady unemployment rate, positioning Trinidad and Tobago favourably compared to regional counterparts.

   “These achievements should inspire collective hope,” he said.

   As the nation enters 2025, the Prime Minister urged citizens to acknowledge their individual and collective responsibilities in addressing challenges such as rising crime. He called for these reflections to extend beyond individuals to families, schools, workplaces, and places of worship, emphasising the importance of shared values and purpose.

   Quoting the national anthem, the Prime Minister encouraged the nation to have “boundless faith in our destiny” and work together toward a future marked by peace, love, and prosperity.

   The Prime Minister concluded his message with a heartfelt wish for a safe, happy, and prosperous New Year, expressing confidence in the nation’s ability to overcome any obstacle when united in purpose.