Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago has firmly denied any involvement by her administration in the revocation of activist Gary Aboud’s US visa. She emphasized that such decisions are solely within the jurisdiction of the US government and its embassy. Persad-Bissessar stated, ‘The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago has absolutely no involvement in the decisions or actions taken by the Government of the United States or the US Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago regarding their visa or immigration policies. Any concerns or requests for clarification must be directed to the appropriate US authorities.’
In addition, the Prime Minister refuted claims that her government is silencing non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Trinidad and Tobago, labeling Aboud’s assertions as ‘reckless, misleading, and risks causing unnecessary fear.’ She reaffirmed her commitment to upholding democratic principles, stating, ‘I categorically state that there has never been – and will never be – any attempt by my Government to intimidate, punish, or suppress the voices of civil society.’
Persad-Bissessar also reiterated her support for US military actions in the Caribbean, aimed at combating transnational criminal activities such as narco-trafficking, human trafficking, and gun running. She blamed these criminal networks for the unprecedented levels of violence and suffering in the region. ‘My Government firmly supports the United States and our international partners in their mission to combat transnational trafficking and dismantle criminal networks that prey on our citizens,’ she said.
The Prime Minister highlighted the positive impact of US military assets in reducing the flow of illegal weapons and drugs into Trinidad and Tobago. ‘Their partnership is welcomed, and their results are evident. My Government remains committed to strengthening regional security, protecting our citizens, and working alongside international partners – including the United States – to ensure that peace, safety, and the rule of law prevail in TT,’ she concluded.
Gary Aboud, the corporate secretary of Fisherman and Friends of the Sea (FFOS), claimed that his US visa was revoked due to his criticism of US missile strikes in the Caribbean over the past two and a half months. He received the revocation notice via email on November 20, citing ‘new information’ that had come to the attention of US authorities.