Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Junior Benjamin is set to assume the role of acting Commissioner of Police for the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS), as indicated in the Order Paper for the House of Representatives’ session on October 10. The document, published online on October 9, also revealed that Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Curt Simon will temporarily fill Benjamin’s position as DCP. The first agenda item for the House session involves a paper to be presented by Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander, which includes the nomination of Benjamin for the acting Commissioner role and Simon’s confirmation as acting DCP. Speculation surrounds the duration of these appointments and the reasons for the absence of substantive Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro, who could not be reached for comment on October 9. The Order Paper also outlines two motions for these nominations, to be debated by Members of Parliament (MPs). The motions reference Section 123 of the Constitution, which grants the Police Service Commission (PSC) the authority to appoint individuals to act as Commissioner or Deputy Commissioner. The PSC forwards nominees to the President, who issues notifications subject to parliamentary approval. President Christine Kangaloo issued Benjamin’s notification on October 3, with similar provisions for Simon. Additionally, Attorney General John Jeremie, SC, will introduce The Administration of Justice (Indictable Proceedings) (Amendment) Bill, 2025, for debate. The House will also review reports from the Auditor General’s office, led by Jaiwantie Ramdass, concerning the delayed submission of annual financial statements by three regional corporations. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo will present these reports and propose their referral to the Public Accounts Committee.
分类： politics
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PM: Lee remains Housing Minister
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has reaffirmed her decision to retain Caroni Central MP David Lee as Minister of Housing, despite ongoing legal challenges. In a WhatsApp message to Newsday on October 10, Persad-Bissessar stated, ‘Yes, he remains Minister of Housing. There will be no change to that.’ This declaration underscores her unwavering support for Lee, even as he faces renewed legal scrutiny. The Prime Minister emphasized her government’s commitment to the rule of law, asserting that the judicial process must proceed unimpeded. On October 9, opposition chief whip Marvin Gonzales argued that Lee should step down from his ministerial role while his case is before the courts, though he acknowledged Lee’s right to retain his parliamentary seat. Lee, along with businessman Hugh Leong Poi, was re-arrested on October 7 on charges related to the misuse of a vehicle tax exemption granted to MPs. Initially dismissed on April 7 by Chief Magistrate Christine Charles due to insufficient evidence, the charges were reinstated by Director of Public Prosecutions Roger Gaspard, SC. Lee was released on $1 million bail on October 8. Persad-Bissessar expressed confidence in the judiciary, stating, ‘We have respect for the courts of the land. Minister Lee was acquitted of these allegations before. Now that the charges have been re-laid, we have confidence in the courts to deliver a just result.’
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Sebas: I’m ‘ready to serve’ Ft Charlotte
Sebas Bastian, CEO of Island Luck, has announced his decision to step down from his gaming business to focus on his political aspirations. Bastian is seeking the Progressive Liberal Party’s (PLP) nomination for the Fort Charlotte constituency, emphasizing his readiness to serve the community. His announcement follows an interview with the PLP’s Candidates Committee at the party’s headquarters, where he was greeted by enthusiastic supporters chanting, “Sebas is the man for Fort Charlotte.”
Bastian expressed confidence in his ability to balance his extensive business interests with public service, stating, “I have over 20 companies, and I’m only the CEO of one. I didn’t build my businesses by myself. I have more than competent teams to ensure continuity in those businesses. I’m here to serve. I have a higher purpose now, and I’m going to focus on that.” When asked directly if he would step down from Island Luck, he confirmed, “Absolutely. That’s a done deal. Without politics, I was stepping down.”
His decision to distance himself from the gaming industry is seen as a strategic move to align with the Gaming Act, which prohibits Cabinet ministers and their families from holding gaming licenses or financial interests in the industry. Prime Minister Philip Davis has reiterated that the government will not amend this law.
Bastian described his interview with the PLP committee as transparent and thorough, noting that members “didn’t spare anything.” While he was not given a specific timeline for the final decision, he was assured it would come soon. His candidacy has garnered significant support, including an endorsement from outgoing Fort Charlotte MP Alfred Sears, who announced in May that he would not seek re-election.
If selected, Bastian plans to prioritize initiatives such as establishing a community impact center, promoting affordable housing, and addressing the high cost of living. His business acumen and philanthropic efforts, particularly through the Island Cares initiative, have earned him strong backing from Fort Charlotte residents and PLP branch executives. Branch chair Dolores “Red” Archer Adderley praised his commitment to social causes, stating, “We chose him based on his knowledge, his participation in the country, his interest in social events, and his interest in caring for people.”
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Melania Trump says Putin talks secured return of Ukraine war kids
In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, U.S. First Lady Melania Trump announced on Friday that she had successfully secured the release of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia. This achievement followed weeks of discreet negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, initiated after a summit between Putin and her husband, former U.S. President Donald Trump, in Alaska. Melania revealed that eight children displaced by Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine had been reunited with their families within the past 24 hours.
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Let courts decide Lee’s fate
Recent developments surrounding Housing Minister David Lee have ignited a heated public debate, with many calling for his immediate dismissal following the re-filing of charges against him. However, these demands have been met with strong opposition from those who argue that such actions undermine the fundamental principles of justice and democracy. Political analyst Professor Hamid Ghany has emphasized that the circumstances of this case are distinct from others, noting that the charges were previously dismissed, suggesting a lack of substantial evidence. He posits that these charges may once again fail under legal scrutiny. The core issue at hand transcends Lee’s political career, touching upon the foundational democratic principle of ‘innocent until proven guilty.’ Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has reiterated her confidence in the judicial system, urging the nation to respect the rule of law and due process. This stance highlights the necessity of maintaining fairness and integrity in the face of media trials and political witch-hunts, which threaten to erode the very fabric of democratic institutions.
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Ex-Point Fortin mayor: Divided TT must unite on stand-your-ground law
Former Point Fortin Mayor Abdon Mason has issued a compelling call for all 41 Members of Parliament (MPs) in Trinidad and Tobago to set aside partisan differences and collaborate on the proposed stand-your-ground legislation. Speaking at a public consultation held at the Point Fortin Borough Corporation on October 7, Mason emphasized the importance of prioritizing national interests over political affiliations. While he expressed gratitude to Point Fortin MP Ernesto Kesar for organizing the session, Mason refrained from outright endorsing the bill, stating, ‘I would support any legislation which aims to protect the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.’ Mason highlighted the nation’s growing divide between ‘the fearless and the fearful,’ placing himself in the latter category as a father concerned for his children’s safety. He also lamented the polarization between political factions and ethnic groups, urging unity and mutual respect. Recalling a dramatic demonstration by Minister of National Security Roger Alexander, Mason underscored the urgency of addressing home invasion fears. He appealed to MPs to transcend political noise and focus on the legislation’s potential benefits for the population, emphasizing the need for progress beyond electoral disappointments. Mason concluded, ‘Let us leave the pettiness aside and look at the true value of the legislation and its benefit to the population.’
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Overnight military shake-up
A significant restructuring within the military leadership has unfolded, raising questions about the transparency and timing of the changes. Defence Minister Wayne Sturge had previously signaled impending reforms in September, criticizing the deteriorating conditions of military bases, the poor state of soldiers’ uniforms, and disparities between senior officers and rank-and-file personnel. He vowed to address these issues “in the coming weeks.”
However, the abrupt dismissal of Air Vice Marshal Darryl Daniel and the appointment of Captain Don Polo as the new Chief of Defence Staff on October 7 has drawn scrutiny. The ministry’s press release stated that the changes were made “after lengthy deliberations and mature consideration,” yet the suddenness of the decision contrasts with this claim. The outgoing leader’s tenure was expected to last another six months, adding to the confusion.
The appointment process itself has raised eyebrows. While Section 191 of the Defence Act governs the selection of the Chief of Defence Staff, the ministry referenced Section 12, which pertains to promotions. This suggests that Capt Polo may have been elevated to a higher rank, such as commodore, to assume the role. The move follows an earlier, unexplained leadership shake-up in August, which was reversed within 24 hours of being announced.
Despite the controversy, the installation of a new Chief of Defence Staff marks a decisive step in reshaping the Defence Council, which oversees military command and administration. The council includes the Defence Minister, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the Permanent Secretary of the line ministry, with a new Permanent Secretary appointed in June.
The Chief of Defence Staff plays a pivotal role in leading the Defence Force, one of the largest in the English-speaking Caribbean. The force is tasked with safeguarding national sovereignty, supporting regional objectives, and responding to disasters—a mission increasingly critical amid the climate crisis. However, the leadership change occurs against a backdrop of heightened tensions, including a state of emergency triggered by the disappearance of 28,000 rounds of ammunition and escalating US-Venezuela relations.
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Israel ceases fire and Gazans start to trek home
In a significant development, Israel announced a ceasefire in Gaza on Friday, initiating the withdrawal of its troops after two years of intense conflict. The truce, brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump, aims to facilitate the release of remaining Israeli hostages held in the Palestinian territory. The Israeli military confirmed the cessation of hostilities at noon (0900 GMT), marking the first step toward implementing the ceasefire agreement. Shortly after, the U.S. Pentagon announced that Israel had completed the initial phase of its troop pullback, as outlined in Trump’s peace plan. Despite the withdrawal, Israeli forces still control approximately 53% of Gaza. The ceasefire sets a 72-hour deadline for Hamas to release the hostages, while Israel has published a list of 250 Palestinian prisoners it plans to free, alongside 1,700 Gazans detained since the conflict escalated in October 2023. As the truce took effect, thousands of displaced Palestinians began returning to their devastated homes, many of which lie in ruins after years of bombardment. The EU mission at the Rafah border crossing announced plans to reopen a pedestrian route on October 14, further easing the humanitarian crisis. Under the agreement, Hamas is expected to hand over 47 hostages—both living and deceased—from the 251 abducted two years ago, along with the remains of another hostage held since 2014. While celebrations erupted in Israel and Gaza, unresolved issues, including Hamas’s disarmament and the proposed transitional authority for Gaza, remain contentious. Senior Hamas official Osama Hamdan rejected the transitional authority, emphasizing the group’s resistance to external governance. Meanwhile, Trump indicated that Hamas’s disarmament would be addressed in the second phase of the peace plan. As Israeli troops withdrew from key areas like Tel al-Hawa and Al-Shati camps in Gaza City, residents expressed a mix of joy and grief. Areej Abu Saadaeh, a mother who lost two children in the conflict, reflected the bittersweet sentiment: ‘I’m happy about the truce and peace, even though I grieve deeply for my children. Yet, returning to our homes brings joy.’
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Roseau Enhancement Project: ‘Alive and moving’, more info coming, says Poponne-Skerrit
Melissa Poponne-Skerrit, the Parliamentary Representative for the Roseau Central Constituency, has reaffirmed the ongoing progress of the Roseau Enhancement Project, emphasizing transparency and stakeholder involvement. Speaking on the ‘Focus on Government and Development’ program aired on DBS Radio, Poponne-Skerrit assured the public that the project is advancing steadily, with technical aspects nearing completion. Key steps, such as appointing a project manager, finalizing tender agreements, and sorting contracts, are being meticulously addressed before physical work commences.
Poponne-Skerrit highlighted the importance of engaging stakeholders, particularly vendors, residents, and business owners along Great George Street, the first area slated for transformation. She plans to discuss temporary relocations, construction timelines, traffic diversions, and other logistical details to minimize disruptions. The project aims to modernize Roseau, making it resilient, wheelchair accessible, and aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, initiatives like the ‘Paint the Town’ program will enhance buildings alongside infrastructure improvements.
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit recently addressed delays in setting up the project information unit and staffing decisions during a press conference. He confirmed that negotiations with a supervisory firm are ongoing, with a contract expected by the end of October. Once approved, the project will proceed to the tender phase. Skerrit clarified that the $40 million loan from the Saudi Fund remains in Saudi Arabia, with disbursements scheduled in phases upon contract signing and certification of completed work.
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Government Warns Car Dealers: Unauthorized Vehicle Sales Will Be Void
The Antiguan Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Gaston Browne, has reaffirmed its stringent 2023 policy regarding the procurement of motor vehicles for government use. The policy mandates that all vehicle purchases must be explicitly authorized by a Cabinet decision. Any vehicle delivered or consigned to the government without this legal authorization will be considered null and void, absolving the government of any financial liability for associated costs or charges. Additionally, even with Cabinet approval, all purchase requests must undergo proper processing by the purchasing authority, with payment vouchers prepared and approved before vehicle delivery. This regulation applies uniformly to all vehicle suppliers and vendors, with no exceptions unless specifically approved by the Cabinet. The policy aims to ensure transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility in government vehicle acquisitions.