Trinidad and Tobago’s political landscape has been rocked by a heated exchange between current Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander and former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley over law enforcement policies and gender-based insults.
Minister Alexander launched a scathing critique of Rowley’s recent statements suggesting that law enforcement might be encouraged to use lethal force against suspected individuals on land. This came in response to Rowley’s interpretation of legal advice obtained by the Attorney General regarding US kinetic strikes against drug trafficking vessels in international waters.
Alexander emphasized that the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service operates under a strict ‘use of force’ policy that clearly delineates when deadly force may be employed within legal boundaries. He characterized Rowley’s comments as “irresponsible and reckless” and suggested they could embolden criminal elements while undermining police authority.
The controversy deepened as Alexander condemned Rowley’s use of the term “jamette” to describe Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar. The Minister expressed profound disappointment as an African male, highlighting the importance of respecting women and condemning derogatory language in political discourse. He questioned whether Rowley would use such language toward his own family members and emphasized the cultural values of honoring women.
Rowley’s original comments stemmed from his concerns about the government accepting legal opinion that justified US maritime strikes against drug boats as acts of self-defense under international law. The former PM extrapolated this reasoning to suggest it could create an “inducement” for security forces to employ similar tactics on land without proper judicial oversight.
The exchange also touched upon historical procurement decisions regarding Offshore Patrol Vessels and accusations between political parties about responsibility for the country’s crime situation, revealing deep political divisions in addressing national security challenges.