Morris-Julian mourned beyond political party lines

Stories by Gail Alexander

Senior Political Reporter

Lisa Morris-Julian was mourned beyond party lines by the People’s National Movement (PNM), United National Congress (UNC) “dissidents”, National Transformation Alliance (NTA), Congress of the People (COP) and First Wave Movement.

COP leader Kirt Sinnette yesterday asked T&T to observe a minute’s silence and prayer on the tragic death of Minister in the Ministry Education and PNM MP, who died in a fire along with two of her children at their Arima home yesterday. Such was the outpouring on the tragedy.

A statement from PNM general secretary Foster Cummings, who detailed her political history, said the PNM had been plunged into shock and deep mourning. The statement said, “At a party level, Minister Morris-Julian was an integral part of the PNM’s National Women’s League, having served in various capacities, including as its public relations officer, and most recently, as its vice chairman (North). She also served in several portfolios in both the Arima and the D’Abadie/O’Meara constituency. Lisa was a mentor and role model to many young women in the party, especially those whose interest stemmed within the realm of local government.”

Extending condolences to Morris-Julian’s family, her friends, constituents, her former burgesses, and all whose lives she touched ever so lovingly and passionately, the statement added, “Thank you for your service, Lisa. May the angels welcome you and the members of the family into paradise. You will be terribly missed.”

PNM’s Women’s League, chaired by lady vice chairman Camille Robinson-Regis, mourned the tragic loss of Morris-Julian and her children.

“Mrs Morris-Julian was not just a remarkable public servant and political figure but also a true champion for the people of T&T. Her tireless contributions across various sectors, particularly in Local Government, left an indelible mark on our nation.”

The League lauded Morris-Julian’s work as Arima mayor, which “was driven by a deep love for her people and a desire to build stronger, more resilient communities.”

The League stated that after being elected in 2020 as PNM D’Abadie/O’Meara MP, her leadership resonated with her constituents.

“She worked tirelessly to instil a sense of pride and belonging, uplifting the lives of those she served. In her role as Minister in the Ministry of Education, she championed educational reforms that sought to nurture creativity, expand opportunities for underprivileged schools, and inspire a new generation of leaders.

“She was a mother whose heart overflowed with love for her children. Her family was the centre of her universe, and she poured her heart and soul into raising them with the same unwavering dedication and passion that she brought to her public service. To lose her, and her children, is a tragedy that has left a profound void in our hearts.”

It added, “Her kindness, strength, compassion, and wisdom touched each and every one of us. She was a woman of faith, driven by a boundless love for her country, her family, and her people. There are no words to fully capture the grief we feel, nor the immense loss we have suffered with her passing.

“… A woman of exceptional grace, compassion, and service, whose impact on this nation will never be forgotten. May her soul and the souls of her precious children rest in peace. We extend our deepest condolences to her husband Daniel, children Anya and Ixiah, her mother Ann, her sisters, brothers, other family members and the people of D’Abadie/O’Meara.”

UNC MPs grieve

UNC Chaguanas West MP Dinesh Rambally, first among the Opposition to extend condolences, said, “It’s with profound sadness that I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of MP Lisa Morris and her two children, whose lives were tragically lost … Words cannot capture the depth of this loss, but we must come together to comfort and support one another as a people. My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected. May their souls rest in eternal peace. Om Sadgati.”

Cumuto/Manzanilla MP Dr Rai Ragbir added, “It is with profound sadness that I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of MP Lisa Morris and her two children, whose lives were tragically lost in the fire.

As a fellow believer in Christ and colleague of MP Morris, I pray for God’s comfort, strength, and peace to embrace her grieving family during this unimaginable loss. Their passing is a heartbreaking reminder of life’s fragility. I join the community in mourning and lifting them up in prayer. May their souls rest in eternal peace and rise in glory,”

Mayaro MP Rushton Paray said, “Lisa was a remarkable individual whose life was devoted to service …, she demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the people she represented and to the development of our nation. Her contributions to her community and her country will be remembered with great respect. This tragedy has sent shockwaves across T&T. As Members of Parliament, we dedicate ourselves to improving the lives of others, and yet, it is heartbreaking to witness a colleague’s life and family end in such devastation”.

Caroni East MP Dr Rishad Seecheran said, “The passing of Mrs Morris-Julian and her children in such a horrific manner is an awful tragedy and a source of immense grief for the nation. Such a dreadful death would be terrible for anyone. Mrs Morris-Julian wasn’t only an elected representative and Government minister, but also a friendly, sociable person. I’ve been reflecting on the several pleasant conversations we shared. The deaths are a startling reminder of life’s fragility and fleeting nature, and the need to live in harmony and be each other’s keeper. It’s a most sobering moment for the people of T&T.”

Naparima MP Rodney Charles, added, “We last spoke at a function two evenings ago, where she demonstrated clearly that while we sat on opposing sides of the political divide, we could still be cordial to each other, respectful of different views, and genuinely—in the spirit of Christmas and life generally—wish the best for all God’s children.

“In Parliament’s corridors, she was always proud of her indigenous heritage and her links to the people of Arima. Her contributions were always rooted in facts and delivered with passion yet spoken in a firm, quietly dignified manner. One sensed she was consumed not with power, nor glory, nor the trappings of office but service … The news of her passing and the manner of her death are hard to take, even for those who have much experience with the trials and tribulations of life.”

T&T in sorrow—Gary, COP

NTA leader Gary Griffith said his party joined T&T in mourning the tragic passing of Morris-Julian and her children.

“This profound loss has left T&T in shock and sorrow. The NTA rejects any negativity, speculation, or baseless narratives surrounding this tragedy. It’s also disheartening to see some using this moment to push political agendas and spread unfounded claims about burglar-proofing, fire service delays, and water supply issues—all before the facts are known. Attempts to link Lisa’s passing to politics, spirituality, or agenda-driven motives are disrespectful, unkind, irresponsible and insensitive.”

“This is a time for unity, compassion and solidarity,” Griffith added, rejecting exploitation of the tragedy for political mileage.

“Political opponents aren’t enemies … we call on all citizens to honour the lives of Lisa Morris-Julian and her children, offering love and support instead of division. Let’s reflect on our shared humanity and stand together as a nation in grief.”

COP leader Kirt Sinnette said, “The Congress of the People extends its heartfelt condolences to the family friends and acquaintances of the People’s National Movement for the untimely and tragic deaths … We ask that as a nation, we take a minute of silence and bow our hearts in prayer as we ask for strength to those so bereaved.”

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