The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) is grappling with a deepening crisis as unresolved promotion disputes continue to undermine morale and efficiency. Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro recently shed light on the severe impact of these delays, emphasizing the loss of experienced officers due to mandatory retirements and the squandering of millions invested in succession planning. The issue, which predates Guevarro’s tenure, has reached a critical juncture, with legal battles further complicating the situation. On November 18, the Court of Appeal reserved its ruling in a lawsuit filed by 30 second-division officers, while a separate case involving 169 first-division officers remains adjourned. The promotion process, governed by a labyrinth of constitutional provisions, regulations, and departmental orders, is described as convoluted and often misunderstood even by senior officials. This has led to frequent rule violations, accusations of cronyism, and widespread demoralization within the force. With over 2,357 officers awaiting promotion and backlogs stretching for years, the system is in dire need of legislative reform. Commissioner Guevarro has called for urgent intervention to overhaul the process, ensuring fairness and efficiency in recognizing merit and service.