分类： politics

In a significant move to reshape the future of Trinidad and Tobago Television (TTT), Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar officially appointed a new board of directors on October 31. The ceremony, held at the historic Red House in Port of Spain, marked a pivotal moment for the state-owned broadcaster. Veteran broadcaster Michael T Kerr was named as the new chairman, with Cecile Ablack stepping into the role of deputy chairman. The board also includes Aaron Mahabir, Jamal Shamshuddin Mohammed, Anna R Moonsammy, Marilyn Martin, Steve Oudit, Nikesha Samuel, and Azeem Mandul. Kerr expressed the board’s gratitude and commitment to serving the nation’s best interests, emphasizing their dedication to the people of Trinidad and Tobago. This restructuring follows a recent realignment of cabinet responsibilities, placing TTT under the direct oversight of the Office of the Prime Minister. During the meeting, Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar shared her vision for TTT’s future, urging the new leadership to strive for excellence and innovation in their national service.

Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander has issued a stern warning to the public against relying on social media for updates or guidance, particularly in times of heightened regional tensions. Speaking at the opening of Daisy’s Exclusive’s newest branch in Tunapuna on November 2, Alexander emphasized the dangers of misinformation, which he said caused widespread panic and confusion last Friday. He urged citizens to trust official government channels for accurate information and to avoid being swayed by unverified claims circulating online. Alexander also highlighted the role of social media in spreading false rumors, such as the premature closure of schools, which led to chaotic scenes and gridlock traffic in the capital. He called on bloggers and social media users to act responsibly and avoid disseminating panic-inducing content. The Minister’s remarks come amid regional anxieties triggered by international reports suggesting potential U.S. military action in Venezuela. While U.S. President Donald Trump denied these claims, the situation has fueled speculation and unease in Trinidad and Tobago. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar echoed Alexander’s call for calm, assuring the public that there is no imminent threat and that the government is closely monitoring the situation. She emphasized the importance of relying on verified information and avoiding unnecessary panic. Alexander also praised the economic revitalization of Tunapuna, noting a significant reduction in crime and encouraging young men to abandon gang lifestyles. He reiterated the government’s commitment to transparency and public safety, urging citizens to remain vigilant and critical of online content.

Sean Sobers, Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Foreign and Caricom Affairs, has found himself at the center of a series of diplomatic challenges since assuming his role. Tasked with enhancing the nation’s international relations and global standing, Sobers has instead overseen a deterioration in ties with Caricom and neighboring Venezuela. His support for stringent measures against Venezuelan migrants has further strained relations, while his alignment with U.S. interests has sparked domestic debate. Sobers’ tenure began controversially in May when his comments on the disappearance of a young man in Antigua drew sharp criticism from Antiguan Prime Minister Gaston Browne. By July, he was forced to backtrack on claims of resolving the UK’s visa requirements for TT citizens, instead detailing the complexities behind the decision. By August, Sobers appeared to echo Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar’s stance on neutrality in the U.S.-Venezuela conflict, even as she controversially endorsed extrajudicial killings in international waters. The minister’s handling of the evacuation of TT students stranded in Jamaica during a hurricane in October highlighted disorganization and inefficiency, with students receiving flight notifications after the planes had departed. At a post-cabinet briefing on October 30, Sobers adopted a defensive tone with the media, refusing to commit to compassionate treatment of illegal immigrants and deflecting questions about U.S. evidence in at-sea strikes. His recent press release on TT’s “security environment,” which he read during the State of Emergency debate, further blurred the lines between his role and those of the homeland security and defense ministries. Six months into his tenure, Sobers must now embrace the diplomacy central to his role, foster cabinet consensus on foreign policy, and address the significant challenges facing TT.

In a compelling keynote address at the Rapid Fire Kidz Foundation’s annual dinner, former Trinidad and Tobago Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Dookeran emphasized the urgent need for ‘innovative diplomacy’ to navigate the escalating geopolitical tensions between the United States and Venezuela. Speaking at the Achievors Banquet Hall in La Romaine on November 1, Dookeran highlighted the importance of unity and courage in fostering peace and stability in the region. The event, themed ‘Jurassic,’ raised nearly $30,000 through the auction of dinosaur fossils, blending geopolitics, history, and humanitarian efforts. Dookeran’s address, titled ‘Fireworks of Ideas that Shaped Trinidad and Tobago’s Journey at Independence,’ drew parallels between the nation’s founding principles and the current challenges. He urged Trinidad and Tobago to draw inspiration from its 1962 independence movement, emphasizing that peace and development are interdependent. The former minister also paid tribute to the late Darryl Ratiram, father of Rapid Fire Kidz Foundation president Kevin Ratiram, presenting a copy of his speech in his honor. Kevin Ratiram, a prominent humanitarian, echoed Dookeran’s call for compassion, particularly for Venezuelan migrant children displaced by political and economic turmoil. Ratiram shared the Foundation’s efforts to establish a learning center for these children, despite facing community prejudice. He stressed the need for empathy and acceptance, urging citizens to move beyond tolerance and embrace inclusivity. The evening’s message underscored Trinidad and Tobago’s strength in its humanity, with Dookeran concluding, ‘The fireworks of independence were lit by ideas. Tonight, the fireworks of compassion burn just as brightly.’