分类： politics

The deployment of US warships in Caribbean waters, including one docked at the Port of Spain, has ignited a heated debate over regional security and the fight against the drug trade. While the US frames its actions as necessary to protect its citizens and the wider region from the scourge of narcotics, local voices have raised concerns about the implications of such military presence. The Antilles Episcopal Conference has issued a strongly worded letter condemning these actions and advocating for peace, questioning the long-term consequences of militarized interventions. In a region historically plagued by gang violence and the devastating effects of the drug trade, the arrival of US forces has been met with mixed reactions. Some view it as a decisive step toward curbing the narcotics epidemic, while others fear it undermines the Caribbean’s identity as a ‘zone of peace.’ The USS Gravely’s presence, however, sends a clear message to narco-terrorists that the region is no longer undefended. This development comes amid a broader call for unity and action against the drug trade, which has long ravaged communities and corrupted institutions. The Vatican has consistently condemned drug-related activities, with Pope Francis emphasizing that addiction is an evil that demands unyielding resistance. Yet, the Caribbean’s struggle against the narcotics economy remains fraught with challenges, including complicity and inaction. As the region grapples with these issues, the question remains: Can decisive action, even if led by external forces, bring about the peace and justice that decades of prayer and advocacy have sought?

During the Senate session on October 29, Dr. Amery Browne, Leader of Opposition Business, raised concerns over the government’s lack of clarity regarding the deferral of several questions on the Senate’s order paper. Browne questioned whether a two-week deferral was being sought for inquiries directed at Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander, who was absent from the session. He noted that alternative options, such as having another minister respond, were also available. Browne, who previously served as Leader of Government Business, has utilized both approaches in the past. Darrell Allahar, the current Leader of Government Business, acknowledged Browne’s points and requested deferrals for questions to Alexander and Defence Minister Wayne Sturge. The inquiries to Alexander, filed by Opposition Senator Faris Al-Rawi, pertained to virtual court hearings at police stations, while Sturge’s question focused on safety measures at high-risk beaches. Additionally, Attorney General John Jeremie was unable to provide a timeline for the presentation of the government’s official legislative agenda, citing incomplete preparations. The session also saw PNM deputy leader Sanjiv Boodhu sworn in as a temporary opposition senator, replacing Foster Cummings, who was absent due to illness.

Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro has emphasized the necessity of extending the current State of Emergency (SoE) to effectively dismantle criminal networks in Trinidad and Tobago. Speaking on October 29, Guevarro highlighted the significant progress made since the SoE was first implemented on July 18, but cautioned that criminal elements remain adaptable and persistent. He recommended a further extension to ensure long-term stability, stressing that the final decision rests with Parliament. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar confirmed on October 27 that Guevarro had formally advised the government to extend the measure. The government has scheduled a parliamentary debate for October 31 to discuss the proposed extension. While the government does not require opposition support to approve an additional three-month extension in the Lower House, any period beyond that would necessitate a three-fifths majority. The initial SoE was declared in response to a surge in murders and intelligence reports of planned attacks by criminal networks, targeting senior government officials, judiciary members, law enforcement officers, and prison personnel. Under the SoE, the police and Defence Force have been granted enhanced powers to arrest suspects and conduct searches. Guevarro clarified that his recommendation is based solely on internal security assessments and not influenced by regional tensions involving Venezuela and the United States.

During a Senate debate on October 27, Opposition Senator Vishnu Dhanpaul and Independent Senator Anthony Vieira, SC, raised critical questions regarding the proposed increases in duties on alcohol and tobacco in Trinidad and Tobago’s 2025/2026 budget. The motions aimed to implement these duties, which Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo estimated could generate approximately $800 million in revenue. However, Dhanpaul expressed skepticism about achieving this target, citing historical data from 2017 when a 20% increase in alcohol taxes led to a revenue drop from $900 million to $700 million. He also highlighted potential structural issues, such as increased smuggling and consumption of harmful products, as well as the cultural impact on traditions like Christmas and Carnival. Dhanpaul criticized the lack of a clear link between the tax hikes and public health benefits, noting that revenues would likely go directly into the Consolidated Fund rather than health initiatives. Vieira echoed these concerns, emphasizing the absence of stakeholder consultation and the adverse effects on businesses, tourism, and low-income earners. He warned that the sudden implementation of higher duties could disrupt cash flows, breach supply contracts, and make Trinidad and Tobago one of the most expensive destinations in the Caribbean for alcohol consumption. Both senators argued that the measures could erode social traditions and harm the hospitality sector, particularly small businesses and neighborhood bars. In contrast, Minister Kennedy Swaratsingh defended the tax hikes as part of a caring government’s efforts to uplift the poor and vulnerable, estimating potential health sector savings of $260 million.