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In the Independence edition of Altos, Friday, August 25, anchor Neil Parsanlal chatted with Ferdinand ‘Ferdie’ Ferreira.
Ferreira is an author, veteran political commentator, and witness to the nation’s historic journey. Considered a walking encyclopaedia of Trinidad and Tobago’s history, he reflected on the nation’s accomplishments since its independence, highlighting the nation’s stability and progress compared to the tumultuous paths experienced by other newly independent countries.
Despite facing challenges, Trinidad and Tobago managed to establish itself as a relatively young nation without succumbing to the internal conflicts that plagued several post-colonial states.
He cited the examples of the assassinations of prime ministers in countries that gained their independence: India (Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi), Pakistan (Benazir Bhutto), Nigeria (Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa), Grenada (Maurice Bishop), the race riots in Guyana and other economic and political issues which emerged in post-colonial states.
He said, “…We know of Idi Amin. We know of the problems in most of the countries that achieved, whether they were the former colonisers, the British, French, German…In spite of the problems we encounter, political, economic, or otherwise, we [Trinidad and Tobago] have done remarkably well.”
The night of Trinidad and Tobago’s independence holds a special place in Ferreira’s heart. He recalled the moment when he witnessed the Union Jack being lowered and the national flag being raised for the first time.
As a former lance corporal in the Butler Army of Liberation at the age of 14, Ferreira had been at the forefront of the struggle for freedom and liberty in the nation. This moment marked the realisation that Trinidad and Tobago had finally arrived, with the opportunity to chart its own destiny.
He drew inspiration from the words of Mahatma Gandhi (India) and Kwame Nkrumah (Ghana), emphasising the importance of taking ownership of one’s problems and opportunities. He reflected on the responsibility that comes with independence, where the nation’s problems become its own, and its citizens must work collectively to find solutions. This sense of collective responsibility, in Ferreira’s view, defines the patriotism.
On the role of leadership in shaping Trinidad and Tobago’s journey, Ferreira credits the nation’s successful transition to independence to the astute and visionary leadership of its founding father, Dr Eric Williams.
Williams, he said, was backed up by “a cadre of colonial-trained public servants”. He saluted these men – Sir Solomon Hochoy, Dodd Alleyne, Frank Barsotti – who ensured that the most significant period in that historical journey from colonialism, “the most trying period”, was smooth. “…. The consequences of getting it wrong are deadly.”
Expressing concern over the current political landscape, Ferreira lamented the watering down of the dedication and patriotism displayed by past leaders. He noted that contemporary leaders should focus on the well-being of the next generation rather than solely on electoral gains.
“I don’t expect another Eric Williams or Rudranath Capildeo, or people like me. ….I’ve been attending parliament since 1950, until about 10 or 15 years ago, I stopped attending because of the quality. Then, we saw a level of patriotism that exemplified concern for your fellow men, and the building…as they say, politicians look for the next general election, statemen look at the next generation.”
He emphasised the importance of shifting the narrative from “me” to “we” and urged citizens to read and educate themselves about the country’s history and challenges.
Ferreira also acknowledged his ageing and the approaching time when “my voice will no longer be the sword. My pen will no longer be the sword.” At age 91, he is focused on passing on his wealth of knowledge and experiences to younger generations and expressed his hope to present his writings spanning over seven decades to the public, ensuring that his voice and insights continue to contribute to the national discourse and guide future leaders.
He has so far published two books, his autobiography Political Encounters Between 1946 and 2016, and Portraits of a Patriot, released last year.
