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Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago has stirred significant regional discord by endorsing US military expansion near Venezuela and advocating for lethal measures against drug traffickers. This stance has not only fractured Caribbean unity but also drawn sharp criticism from both citizens and regional leaders. The Caribbean Community (Caricom) has promptly distanced itself from Persad-Bissessar’s position, emphasizing its commitment to non-interference and respect for sovereignty. Her assertion that Caricom was ‘already divided’ has been labeled as dismissive and divisive, further exacerbating existing tensions. The implications of this controversy are far-reaching: diplomatically, it undermines Caricom’s collective voice and weakens its global credibility; geopolitically, it risks provoking retaliation from Venezuela and destabilizing regional relations; domestically, it threatens to incite civic unrest due to the lack of democratic consultation; and ethically, it raises concerns about the blurring of lines between law enforcement and extrajudicial violence. Critics argue that Persad-Bissessar’s foreign policy is influenced by narrow identity politics, which could alienate diverse constituencies and undermine democratic norms. This episode represents a significant rupture in Caribbean diplomacy, jeopardizing Trinidad and Tobago’s legacy as a peaceful, sovereign nation and straining Caricom’s already fragile unity.

Works and Infrastructure Minister Jearlean John brought her characteristic enthusiasm and poise to Parliament on October 23, addressing key national projects, budget priorities, and the state of the country’s infrastructure. During a media briefing, John emphasized the ongoing progress of the Sir Solomon Hochoy Highway Widening Project, which received a $2.15 billion allocation from her ministry. She assured that no projects had been halted by the ministry, attributing any delays to contractors rather than government directives. According to a September 9 update on the ministry’s website, the Chaguanas to Chase Village segment of the project is now 83% complete, aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency for daily commuters. John hinted at major infrastructure projects to be announced by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar next week, describing them as transformative initiatives that will drive national progress. Currently, her focus remains on remedial works, including road repairs, drain clearing, and improving road conditions. She stressed the importance of addressing issues like potholes and unmarked roads to restore order and organization. Additionally, John highlighted efforts to build connector roads for rural communities, ensuring they receive adequate attention. With 94 active projects under her ministry, 70% of which are overdue by up to six years, John acknowledged the challenges of delays and rising costs, vowing to bring projects to completion. When questioned about political opposition, she dismissed concerns, criticizing the opposition’s lack of strategy and imbalanced focus during parliamentary sessions.

The Law Association of Trinidad and Tobago (LATT) has raised concerns over the appointment of Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh as the new Chief Justice, questioning whether proper constitutional procedures were followed. In a statement issued on October 23, LATT congratulated Boodoosingh on his new role but highlighted the “hastened and truncated process” that led to his appointment. The association emphasized that Section 102 of the Constitution mandates the President to consult with the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition before making such a significant judicial appointment. According to LATT, the consultation process should involve informing the consultees about the proposed candidate(s) and the rationale behind the choice, allowing adequate time for consideration and response. However, LATT expressed doubts that these principles were adhered to, given the unusually short timeframe of the consultation. The association stressed the importance of transparency and constitutional compliance in appointing the highest judicial officer. Despite these concerns, LATT expressed confidence in Boodoosingh’s capabilities and extended its best wishes for his tenure. The association also acknowledged his significant contributions to Trinidad and Tobago’s jurisprudence and his role as a lecturer at the Hugh Wooding Law School. Additionally, LATT thanked outgoing Chief Justice Ivor Archie for his service and wished him well in his future endeavors.