The Tobago People’s Party (TPP) has retained control of the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) after securing a landslide victory in the January 13 THA elections.

The party increased its majority by winning all 15 seats in the assembly, up from the 13 it previously held following its split from the Progressive Democratic Patriots (PDP). The result represents a clean sweep for the governing party.

Prior to the election, the People’s National Movement (PNM) and the PDP each held one seat. However, neither party was able to secure representation in the new assembly.

A total of 42 candidates from four political parties contested the election. The PDP, led by former trade union leader Watson Duke, did not field candidates and instead endorsed Chief Secretary Farley Augustine and the TPP.

As results began to show the scale of the defeat, PNM Tobago Council leader Ancil Dennis conceded at around 10 pm. 

He also announced plans to step aside as leader, paving the way for new leadership when the council holds elections in April.

Dennis added the party will analyse their defeat and rebuild.

In contrast, celebrations erupted at the TPP’s headquarters as early tallies confirmed the party’s win. 

Addressing supporters, THA Chief Secretary and TPP leader Farley Augustine highlighted the historic nature of the outcome.

“This is the second time in our 45 years that a political party has won all seats!” he said.

The election marked the second electoral test for the TPP, which was formed on August 12, 2023, following its breakaway from the PDP. 

The party has since consolidated its political hold on the island, including unseating PNM candidates Shamfa Cudjoe and Ayanna Webster-Roy in the April 28, 2025 General Election.

Augustine said the victory sent a clear message to the PNM and its political leader, Penelope Beckles.

“Penny, your pennies are powerless in Tobago,” he said.

“If there were any doubts about whether or not the people of Tobago are behind us. today people of Tobago said we only want an indigenous Tobago political institution to lead us.”

The TPP’s winning candidates by district are:

Farley Augustine – Parlatuvier/L’Anse Fourmi/Speyside
Dr Faith Brebnor – Belle Garden/Glamorgan
Megan Morrison – Mt St George/Goodwood
Ian Pollard – Mason Hall North/Moriah
Orlando Kerr – Roxborough/Argyle
Keigon Denoon – Buccoo/Mt Pleasant
Darren Henry – Bethel/New Grange
Trevor James – Scarborough/Mt Grace
Wayne Clarke – Lambeau/Lowlands
Kern Alexis – Plymouth/Black Rock
Nigel Taitt – Signal Hill/Patience Hill
Zorisha Hackett – Bethesda/Les Coteaux
Niketa Percy – Canaan/Bon Accord
Nathisha Charles-Pantin – Mason Hall/Bagatelle
Ricky Joefield – Darrel Spring/Whim