分类： politics

Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo’s 2025-2026 budget presentation, delivered at the TTMA post-budget conference in Port of Spain, has sparked intense scrutiny. The budget, laden with strategic language and ambitious promises, has been dissected for its underlying messages and potential implications. Here’s a closer look at the key themes and tactics employed in the document. The budget opens with hyperbolic claims, asserting that the previous PNM administration left the nation in ‘economic ruin’ and ‘absolute decay.’ Critics question whether this rhetoric is a political maneuver to position the current government as saviors or a prelude to unpopular fiscal measures. Promises dominate the budget, with the word ‘will’ appearing 296 times and ‘intends’ four times. While these pledges are framed as achievements, many echo long-standing, unfulfilled commitments from both PNM and UNC administrations. Strategic word choices, such as ‘halted’ instead of ‘scrapped’ for the property tax, raise concerns about the permanence of these measures. Buzzwords like ‘best international practices’ and ‘seamless digital tax ecosystem’ aim to project modernity, but their practical implementation remains uncertain. The budget also repackages ongoing projects as new successes, such as the PoS General Hospital and flood mitigation initiatives, which were initiated under previous governments. International collaborations, including gifts and grants from India, the US, and China, are celebrated, though critics argue these come with geopolitical strings attached. Euphemisms soften the blow of unpopular measures, such as increased utility bills and a higher retirement age for NIS pensions. The budget’s grand claims and deferred decisions on contentious issues like public servant pay hikes suggest limited fiscal flexibility. While the minister avoids drastic measures like devaluation or IMF intervention, the lack of a clear economic vision leaves many questioning the government’s long-term strategy.

After nearly two decades at the helm of Trinidad and Tobago’s Judiciary, Chief Justice Ivor Archie has officially announced his retirement, effective October 22. In a statement released on October 21, Archie reflected on his tenure, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve his country and emphasizing the importance of leadership succession. ‘Trinidad and Tobago has been good to me, and I hope I have been equally good to my country,’ he stated. Archie, who became the youngest Chief Justice in 2008, had previously signaled his intention to retire before reaching the mandatory age limit of 70, a decision he described as deliberate and well-considered. He highlighted the need for fresh leadership and new ideas, likening his role to a relay race where the baton must be passed to the next runner. Archie’s successor will be appointed by the President after consultation with the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader. During his tenure, Archie spearheaded significant judicial reforms, including the integration of technology and initiatives to modernize the Judiciary. However, his leadership was not without controversy, facing legal challenges and criticism over certain decisions. Born in Tobago, Archie’s distinguished career spanned engineering, law, and public service, culminating in his appointment as Chief Justice. Beyond the Bench, he is known for his involvement in church ministry, sports, and music. Archie concluded his statement by pledging full support to his successor, vowing to offer no unsolicited advice, and expressing gratitude to his colleagues, family, and God for the privilege of serving.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago has come under scrutiny for her contradictory policies and statements regarding justice, security, and international relations. Domestically, she emphasizes fairness, swift criminal trials, and constitutional integrity, while internationally, she has openly supported aggressive U.S. military actions, including summary executions at sea. Her dual approach has raised concerns about her commitment to human rights and due process. The U.S. military strike on a boat off Venezuela on October 14, which allegedly involved Trinidadian nationals, has further exposed the inconsistencies in her leadership. Despite her oath to uphold the Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and due process, her administration has been slow to address the fallout from the incident. Critics argue that her actions have isolated Trinidad and Tobago regionally and undermined its commitment to peace. Her recent meeting with U.S. diplomats and her alignment with Donald Trump’s policies have only deepened the controversy, leaving many questioning her priorities and the implications for national sovereignty.