分类： politics

The 2025-2026 Budget, unveiled on October 13 by Trinidad and Tobago’s new administration, has been hailed by some as a blueprint for hope and transformation. Under the theme “T&T First: Building Economic Fairness through Accountable Fiscal Policies,” Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo presented a polished and thematic budget that signaled strategic realignments across ministries. However, for advocates of mental health and inclusion, the budget fell short of delivering the urgent and transformative changes needed for vulnerable groups. While the government pledged to decentralize mental health services and promote community-based care, the plan lacked critical details such as timelines, infrastructure, and workforce development. The Social Sector Investment Programme highlighted Trinidad and Tobago’s third-place ranking in the Caribbean for mental illness prevalence, yet the budget’s response to this crisis was deemed tepid. Dr. Margaret Nakhid-Chatoor, a psychologist and educator, criticized the absence of targeted measures for people with disabilities, neurodivergent individuals, and the LGBTQ+ community. Despite growing advocacy for mental health reform and inclusion, the budget failed to address systemic barriers or integrate mental health literacy into the education system. Dr. Nakhid-Chatoor emphasized that true economic fairness requires more than rebranding; it demands a reimagining of progress, urgent investment in community-based care, and the embedding of inclusion into every ministry. She called for a redrawing of the track—one that is urgent, accountable, and inclusive of every citizen—to break the cycle of marginalization and ensure measurable outcomes.

A significant legal battle has emerged in Trinidad and Tobago as Denesh Maharaj, a Piarco resident, challenges the legality of his detention under the 2025 state of emergency regulations. Maharaj, who faces charges of firearm and ammunition possession, as well as marijuana trafficking, was detained by police and later subjected to a preventative detention order. His legal team, comprising Keron Ramkhalawan, Anwar Hosein, and Shalini Sankar, contends that his detention was unlawful and violated his constitutional rights to liberty and due process under Sections 4(a), 4(b), and 5(2)(h) of the Constitution. Maharaj seeks declarations that the order authorizing his extended detention was illegal, along with damages and costs. The case raises critical questions about the police’s authority to extend detention periods under emergency regulations, particularly beyond the 48-hour limit without proper oversight. Maharaj’s attorneys argue that his initial arrest was conducted under common law, not emergency powers, and that the subsequent use of emergency regulations to prolong his detention was unjustified. At a recent hearing, Justice Seepersad expressed concern over the absence of state representation and emphasized the need for proper attendance at future proceedings. The case has been adjourned to January 14, 2026, while a related constitutional challenge regarding the police’s power to extend detention periods remains pending a ruling from the Privy Council on the legality of the 2011 state of emergency regulations.

The Assembly of Southern Lawyers (ASL) has extended its congratulations to Ronnie Boodoosingh on his recent appointment as Chief Justice of Trinidad and Tobago. The ASL lauded Boodoosingh’s illustrious legal career, which began in 1992 when he was admitted to practice law. He initially worked as an advocate at JD Sellier & Company before transitioning to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions as a prosecutor. In 2007, he was appointed to the High Court bench, and in 2020, he was elevated to the Court of Appeal. ASL President Saira Lakhan highlighted Boodoosingh’s dedication, professionalism, and commitment to advancing access to justice, particularly in the southern region. Boodoosingh, who holds a master’s degree in international dispute resolution from the University of London, has also made significant contributions to legal education as a lecturer at the Hugh Wooding Law School and as the founder of the Human Rights Law Clinic. The ASL expressed optimism about collaborating with Boodoosingh to strengthen the administration of justice, reduce court backlogs, and enhance public confidence in the judiciary. The assembly also emphasized the importance of reopening and fully operationalizing courts in the southern region, including those in San Fernando. Meanwhile, attorney Prakash Ramadhar reflected on the tenure of outgoing Chief Justice Ivor Archie, who served for 17 years, calling for greater transparency and accountability in judicial appointments. Ramadhar also raised concerns about the current system of judicial appointments, advocating for public scrutiny of those in positions of power. Boodoosingh was officially appointed by acting President Wade Mark, marking a new chapter in Trinidad and Tobago’s judiciary.

Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has voiced concerns over the lack of adequate consultation in the appointment of the new Chief Justice, Ronnie Boodoosingh. Speaking to the media outside the Red House in Port of Spain on October 24, Beckles emphasized that her objections were not about Boodoosingh’s qualifications but rather the rushed timeline of the process. She highlighted that a letter with errors was presented at 6:30 PM while she was in Parliament, corrections were sought by 8:30 AM the next morning, and the appointment was finalized by 2 PM the same day. Beckles described this as insufficient consultation, though she acknowledged Boodoosingh’s competence, noting his background as an ethics teacher at the University of the West Indies (UWI). Boodoosingh was sworn in by acting president Wade Mark on October 22. The Law Association of Trinidad and Tobago also raised concerns about the expedited and abbreviated process leading to his appointment.

The Law Association of Trinidad and Tobago (LATT) has firmly responded to Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s recent criticisms, asserting its constitutional mandate to address matters related to the rule of law and judicial integrity. In a statement issued on October 24, LATT addressed the Prime Minister’s remarks following its commentary on the appointment of the new Chief Justice, Ronnie Boodoosingh. The association emphasized its statutory duty to independently and impartially comment on issues affecting the administration of justice, upholding the highest standards of the legal profession. LATT President Lynette Seebaran-Suite, SC, underscored the importance of respectful public discourse on legal and constitutional matters, particularly among high-ranking officials, to preserve democratic institutions. The association reaffirmed its commitment to serving the public interest and maintaining its dignified role in national life. This response came after Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar launched a scathing critique of LATT, labeling it a “defiled and discredited organisation” and dismissing its concerns about the Chief Justice appointment process. LATT had earlier raised concerns about the “hastened and truncated” procedure, questioning whether proper consultation had occurred as required by the Constitution. Despite logistical challenges caused by the abrupt retirement of former Chief Justice Ivor Archie, LATT maintained that constitutional procedures should not have been bypassed. The controversy deepened as Acting President Wade Mark proceeded with the appointment despite objections from Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles, who claimed insufficient consultation time. Senior Counsel Martin Daly also criticized the process, describing it as “botched” and poorly handled, while acknowledging Boodoosingh’s qualifications. Criminal Bar Association President Israel Khan, SC, defended Boodoosingh’s integrity and independence, citing his past refusal to engage in sycophancy during a previous judicial controversy. LATT concluded by vowing to remain undeterred in fulfilling its constitutional role and calling for continued respect for democratic institutions.

During a meeting of the Standing Finance Committee of the House of Representatives on October 23, Port of Spain North/St Ann’s West MP Stuart Young raised critical questions regarding the allocation of funds for small guest houses and the regulation of the scrap metal industry. Young directed his inquiries to Trade, Investment, and Tourism Minister Satyakama Maharaj, emphasizing the potential of small guest houses to generate foreign exchange revenues for Trinidad and Tobago (TT). He questioned whether the $1.5 million allocated to the ministry was adequate to support these establishments, particularly given the rising costs of imported materials due to recent tariffs. Maharaj responded by outlining the ministry’s targeted approach to hotel development, citing ongoing projects such as Tradewinds in San Fernando and Crews Inn in Chaguaramas. He also mentioned efforts to attract private sector investment, including potential collaborations with foreign hotel chains like Best Western. However, Young expressed concerns that the current funding might not suffice for smaller guest houses seeking assistance throughout the year. On the topic of the scrap metal industry, Young inquired about the adequacy of the $400,000 budget for regulatory measures, recalling past efforts to curb criminal activities in the sector. Maharaj assured that the allocated funds would be sufficient, with additional support available if needed. The minister also highlighted the ministry’s broader mission to diversify the economy and strengthen the non-energy sector through strategic planning and robust management.

The Law Association of Trinidad and Tobago (LATT) has issued a stern call for mutual respect and dignified discourse in public discussions on legal and constitutional matters, particularly among high-ranking officials. This appeal follows recent comments made by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar in response to LATT’s critique of the appointment process for the new Chief Justice, Ronnie Boodoosingh. On October 23, LATT raised concerns about the consultation process, describing it as ‘hastened and truncated.’ In a sharp retort, Persad-Bissessar dismissed LATT’s concerns with derogatory remarks, stating, ‘I have no regard for anything the eat-ah-food filth of the hierarchy of the Law Association says.’ LATT, in its October 24 statement, reaffirmed its statutory duty to comment on matters affecting the administration of justice and the rule of law. The association emphasized its commitment to acting independently, without bias, and in alignment with the highest professional standards. It stressed the importance of constructive engagement among all branches of government to uphold democratic institutions. LATT also vowed to continue its mandate of providing principled guidance on legal matters, undeterred by external criticism. Boodoosingh was sworn in on October 22 by acting President Wade Mark, following the retirement of former Chief Justice Ivor Archie. Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has criticized the appointment process, claiming she was not consulted as required by the Constitution. Mark is currently acting in place of President Christine Kangaloo, who is abroad.

Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo has dismissed concerns raised by San Fernando East MP Brian Manning regarding the expenditures of the Tobago House of Assembly (THA). The dispute arose during the Standing Finance Committee’s session on October 24, where a budget allocation of $2,943,574,800 for the THA was approved. Manning questioned the insurance costs for vehicles used by the Assembly, suggesting potential irregularities. Tancoo firmly refuted these claims, stating, ‘This is not the PNM. So not everything is about racket.’ He emphasized that the THA provides comprehensive insurance for its vehicles, dismissing Manning’s concerns as unfounded. Tancoo also recalled similar questions raised by Manning earlier in the week, urging clarity to prevent unnecessary debate. Manning, however, persisted, requesting detailed information on state vehicles insured by third parties, including the insurance amounts and agencies involved. Committee Chairman Jagdeo Singh advised Manning that while his inquiry might be legitimate, the committee was not the appropriate forum for such questions. Manning adjusted his request to focus solely on THA vehicles. The committee is set to reconvene on October 25 to finalize the budget, with key government departments, including the Office of the Prime Minister and the Judiciary, among the final areas of expenditure to be reviewed. The Senate is scheduled to begin its budget debate on October 27.

The recent appointment of Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh as Chief Justice has sparked significant controversy, with concerns raised about the legitimacy and transparency of the process. The Law Association of Trinidad and Tobago (LATT) and former independent senator Martin Daly SC have both criticized the hastened and truncated consultation process.

The Standing Finance Committee of Trinidad and Tobago’s House of Representatives witnessed intense disagreements during its budget deliberations on October 21 and 22, as opposition and government members clashed over time management and the handling of inquiries. Speaker Jagdeo Singh opened the October 22 session by acknowledging the committee’s poor performance the previous day, particularly in managing time effectively. Singh emphasized the need for a balanced approach, urging both sides to collaborate and streamline the process. He suggested that some questions could be addressed in writing to save time, citing Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles’s earlier request for written responses as an example. Leader of Government Business Barry Padarath defended the government, placing the blame squarely on the opposition for the delays and inefficiencies. However, Opposition Chief Whip Marvin Gonzales and Port of Spain North/St Ann’s West MP Stuart Young countered, accusing the government of evading questions and failing to provide clear answers. Young described the government’s responses as a ‘boldface refusal’ to address critical issues. Despite the tension, Singh called for a conciliatory spirit moving forward, and Gonzales pledged the opposition’s commitment to completing the budget review within the allotted five days. The committee approved expenditures for several public bodies without incident, but the heated exchanges underscored the deep political divide. The budget deliberations are set to conclude by October 25, with both sides vowing to continue their respective approaches.