Tobago’s political landscape has been rattled by escalating concerns over unexplained United States military activities at the ANR Robinson International Airport, prompting demands for full governmental transparency. The controversy emerged on November 26 when residents reported being awakened by the thunderous departure of a US military aircraft at approximately 5:53 AM, with the unexpected event also disturbing local wildlife.
The situation intensified when Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Tobago Chief Secretary Farley Augustine provided conflicting accounts regarding the military presence. While the Prime Minister characterized the operations as mere ‘roadworks’ associated with the new airport development, Augustine initially claimed awareness only of a refueling stop by a US Air Force craft, expressing no knowledge of troop deployments.
Further complicating matters, eyewitnesses reported spotting equipment resembling advanced radar systems typically utilized by the US Marine Corps, fueling additional speculation about the nature of the military activities. This discovery has raised particular concern given the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the United States and Venezuela in the region.
The PNM Tobago Council, led by Minority Leader Kelvon Morris, has taken a firm stance against what they describe as secretive operations conducted without proper consultation or transparency. During a press conference held adjacent to the new airport terminal, Morris revealed he had been inundated with calls from concerned citizens demanding answers about potential military installations.
Former Chief Secretary Ancil Dennis amplified these concerns, accusing both central government and Tobago House of Assembly leadership of engaging in clandestine activities that bypass proper democratic processes. Dennis emphasized the need for Tobagonians to unite in expressing their discomfort with the situation and demand greater accountability from their representatives.
The emerging controversy occurs against the backdrop of upcoming THA elections, with the PNM Tobago Council preparing to challenge Augustine’s Tobago Peoples Party, adding political dimensions to the escalating transparency dispute.