At the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) graduation ceremony held on November 18, 2025, Attorney Israel Khan SC, a distinguished legal figure and president of the Criminal Bar Association of TT, received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree. The event, hosted at the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA) in Port of Spain, saw Khan addressing the graduates with a powerful message: to leverage their education for the betterment of society. Khan emphasized the critical role of the justice system, highlighting the plight of over 300 individuals languishing in legal limbo for more than a decade while awaiting trial. He described this as a moral failure, unfair to both the accused and the victims’ families. Additionally, Khan pointed to the unresolved inquests of more than 1,000 police-involved shootings over the past 30 years, calling it a miscarriage of justice. He urged the graduates to take action against systemic inequalities and to uphold the principles of fairness and accountability. Khan also reminded the graduates of their roots, encouraging them to support future generations and perpetuate a cycle of progress. Alongside Khan, other honorees included businessman and fashion designer Peter Elias, educator Jamwant Maharaj, and songwriter Gilman Figaro, each recognized for their contributions to their respective fields.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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Government settles $131m TTEC COLA dispute
In a landmark development, Public Utilities Minister Barry Shiva Padarath announced a $131 million settlement to resolve a long-standing Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) issue affecting nearly 3,000 TTEC workers. The announcement was made during the House of Representatives’ 12th sitting on November 21, following the signing of a historic memorandum of agreement between TTEC and the Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union (OWTU) on November 13. The first tranche of retroactive payments was deposited into workers’ accounts on November 18, marking a significant step toward justice for employees whose COLA payments had been frozen for nearly a decade. The settlement introduces new COLA rates and outlines a four-stage disbursement plan for retroactive payments, set to be completed by February 2026. Weekly-paid workers will now receive a COLA rate of $5.75 per hour, bringing their total to $15.64 per hour, while monthly-paid workers will see their COLA increase by $1,050, totaling $2,721.36. Minister Padarath emphasized that the settlement provides immediate relief to households struggling with rising living costs and criticized the previous administration for a decade of inaction. The agreement also includes safeguards such as mandatory monthly cash-flow reviews to ensure financial responsibility. Padarath hailed the settlement as a restoration of dignity and fairness, ensuring workers receive their rightful dues in time for Christmas 2025.
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Trade Minister: Inaugural flight to Ghana coming
In a significant move to strengthen trade and tourism ties, Satyakama Maharaj, Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Trade, Investment, and Tourism, has unveiled plans for an inaugural test flight connecting TT to Ghana. The announcement was made during a post-Cabinet media briefing at the Diplomatic Centre in St Ann’s. Maharaj highlighted the logistical challenges of transatlantic travel, emphasizing that current flights to Africa and India can take up to two days, which is both costly and time-consuming. He revealed that the government is in talks with Ethiopian Airlines and the Ghanaian government to facilitate this initiative. The minister underscored the potential economic benefits, particularly for Republic Bank, which operates 40 branches in Ghana and faces operational hurdles due to the lengthy travel times. Maharaj expressed optimism about exploring all options to establish direct flights between the Caribbean and Africa, viewing this as a stepping stone to broader economic collaboration. He also mentioned ongoing discussions for a free-trade agreement involving TT, Caricom, and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which represents a market of 450 million people. The recent appointment of Ghana’s first ambassador to TT further signals mutual interest in fostering trade relations. Maharaj reiterated his commitment to overcoming the barriers to accessing the West African market, which boasts a population of 470 million, stressing that improved connectivity is essential for business growth.
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Pan, powder and mas in San Fernando on November 22
San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago, is currently immersed in a month-long celebration of its rich cultural heritage, culminating in the highly anticipated Steelpan and Powder Parade. This vibrant event, now in its second year, is a collaboration between Pan Trinbago and the San Fernando City Corporation, marking the city’s 37th anniversary since gaining city status in 1988. The festivities kicked off with the Heritage Skiffle Steel Orchestra’s performance on November 16, 2024, setting the tone for a series of events that celebrate the national instrument—the steelpan. The J’Ouvert parade, scheduled for November 22, 2025, will begin at 2 am, winding through the city’s streets and culminating in a grand street party. Mayor Robert Parris emphasized the city’s commitment to responsible entertainment, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees. The Steelpan and Powder Parade, a highlight of the celebrations, will feature performances by renowned steelbands such as Heritage Petroleum Skiffle, NLCB Fonclaire, and Trinidad All Stars, among others. Pan Trinbago President Beverly Ramsey-Moore described the event as a landmark cultural showcase, blending the infectious rhythms of steelpan with the vibrant tradition of powder festivities. The parade, which begins at 6 pm on Coffee Street and concludes at Skinner Park, promises an evening of color, rhythm, and unity. This celebration not only honors Trinidad and Tobago’s musical traditions but also aims to boost tourism and diversify the economy through the orange economy. Mayor Parris invited locals and tourists alike to experience the unique southern blend of steelbands and southern hospitality, making this event a must-attend for steelpan enthusiasts and cultural aficionados.
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Alexander: Transit Police left to ‘deteriorate’ for 9 years
During the 12th sitting of the House of Representatives on November 21, Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander acknowledged the severe understaffing of the Transit Police Unit, which has been left to ‘deteriorate’ over the past nine years. The unit is currently operating with a skeleton staff and is short by at least 60 officers. This revelation came in response to a question from opposition MP Marvin Gonzales, following a recent robbery of a Route 2 maxi taxi driver by masked men in Arouca on November 19. Alexander assured that a superintendent director has been appointed and reconstruction efforts for the Transit Police have commenced. However, he declined to disclose the government’s specific security strategies, stating, ‘I do not want to put on the table the strategies the government intends to use.’ He emphasized the importance of protecting transit infrastructure and mentioned a meeting with the Route 2 Maxi Taxi Association on November 20 to discuss future measures. Alexander also highlighted the Transit Police’s role in overseeing security along the Priority Bus Route, noting ten robberies last year and one so far this year. Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles attempted to inquire about budget allocations for additional Transit Police personnel, but House Speaker Jagdeo Singh ruled the question ‘not allowed,’ as the initial query had already been addressed.
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Red Force hoping for clear skies vs Scorpions
The CG United Super50 Cup has kicked off with a mix of weather disruptions and thrilling cricket action. Trinidad and Tobago Red Force are eagerly awaiting clear skies for their upcoming match against Jamaica Scorpions at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba on November 21. Their initial game against Barbados Royals at the Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Ground in St Augustine was abandoned due to relentless rain, resulting in both teams sharing two points each. The match, delayed by over five hours due to a wet outfield, was reduced to a 20-over contest. Barbados openers Kyle Mayers and Leniko Boucher managed an unbeaten 48-run partnership before the rain returned, halting play indefinitely. Similarly, the clash between Guyana Harpy Eagles and Jamaica Scorpions at the Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain ended in a no-result after Guyana posted 287/7 in 47.1 overs. In contrast, Windward Islands Volcanoes secured a dramatic two-wicket victory over Leeward Islands Hurricanes at Tarouba, propelling them to the top of the table. Leewards set a formidable target of 324, powered by Kofi James’ century and half-centuries from Mikyle Louis and Carlon Bowen-Tuckett. Windwards’ chase was anchored by Darron Nedd’s 94 and Dillon Douglas’ 61, culminating in a thrilling win with 325/8 in 43.5 overs. As the tournament progresses, Red Force hopes for better weather to keep their title aspirations alive, while Windwards aim to continue their winning streak against Guyana Harpy Eagles.
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Tancoo calls on banks to absorb asset levy
Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo has reassured the public that the newly introduced 0.25% asset levy on commercial banks and insurance companies, effective January 1, 2026, will not adversely affect customers. Speaking at the ICATT conference held at the Hyatt Regency in Port of Spain, Tancoo emphasized the importance of the Central Bank’s role in ensuring that financial institutions absorb the levy without passing additional costs onto consumers. He highlighted that the combined asset base of commercial banks and insurance companies exceeds $230 billion, and the levy is expected to generate approximately $5 billion annually from banks and $75 million from insurance companies. Tancoo also addressed concerns raised by critics regarding the lack of safeguards to prevent cost transfer to customers, stating that the Central Bank would maintain strict oversight. Additionally, he outlined the government’s strategy to reduce the budget deficit by enhancing the efficiency of the Board of Inland Revenue (BIR) and Customs and Excise, aiming to curb tax evasion and improve revenue streams.
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PM distances government from Aboud’s US visa revocation
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago has firmly denied any involvement by her administration in the revocation of activist Gary Aboud’s US visa. She emphasized that such decisions are solely within the jurisdiction of the US government and its embassy. Persad-Bissessar stated, ‘The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago has absolutely no involvement in the decisions or actions taken by the Government of the United States or the US Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago regarding their visa or immigration policies. Any concerns or requests for clarification must be directed to the appropriate US authorities.’
In addition, the Prime Minister refuted claims that her government is silencing non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Trinidad and Tobago, labeling Aboud’s assertions as ‘reckless, misleading, and risks causing unnecessary fear.’ She reaffirmed her commitment to upholding democratic principles, stating, ‘I categorically state that there has never been – and will never be – any attempt by my Government to intimidate, punish, or suppress the voices of civil society.’
Persad-Bissessar also reiterated her support for US military actions in the Caribbean, aimed at combating transnational criminal activities such as narco-trafficking, human trafficking, and gun running. She blamed these criminal networks for the unprecedented levels of violence and suffering in the region. ‘My Government firmly supports the United States and our international partners in their mission to combat transnational trafficking and dismantle criminal networks that prey on our citizens,’ she said.
The Prime Minister highlighted the positive impact of US military assets in reducing the flow of illegal weapons and drugs into Trinidad and Tobago. ‘Their partnership is welcomed, and their results are evident. My Government remains committed to strengthening regional security, protecting our citizens, and working alongside international partners – including the United States – to ensure that peace, safety, and the rule of law prevail in TT,’ she concluded.
Gary Aboud, the corporate secretary of Fisherman and Friends of the Sea (FFOS), claimed that his US visa was revoked due to his criticism of US missile strikes in the Caribbean over the past two and a half months. He received the revocation notice via email on November 20, citing ‘new information’ that had come to the attention of US authorities.
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Damien Adams storms into Pan-Am MMA semi-final
Trinidad and Tobago (TT) athletes have made significant strides at the 2025 International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) Pan-Americana Championship in Monterrey, Mexico. Damien Adams secured a swift victory in the men’s featherweight (65.8 kg) category, defeating El Salvador’s Gabriel Barrera via submission with 47 seconds remaining in the first round. Adams’ dominant performance earned him a spot in the semi-finals, scheduled for November 21. Joining him is Joshua James, who will compete in the men’s super lightweight (74.8 kg) semi-final against Mexico’s Luis Angel Rodriguez Dominguez. Meanwhile, Michael Serrette has already advanced to the super heavyweight final, awaiting the winner of an all-Mexico semi-final clash. The TT delegation, led by national coach Keron Bourne and TTMMAF president Jason Fraser, continues to showcase the country’s growing prowess in mixed martial arts. This year marks TT’s sixth consecutive appearance at the championship, a testament to their dedication despite financial challenges. Fraser emphasized the need for private-sector support to sustain youth development programs, urging corporations to invest in athletes from disadvantaged backgrounds. The championship, featuring 17 nations, is part of IMMAF’s global series of tournaments, highlighting the sport’s expanding reach and impact.
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Cepep contractor suffers defeat as court upholds stay of ‘termination’ lawsuit
The Court of Appeal has affirmed a stay of proceedings in a legal challenge initiated by Eastman Enterprises Ltd, a former contractor of Cepep Company Ltd, regarding the termination of over 300 contracts shortly after the April 28 general election. However, the appellate court overturned the High Court’s directive to refer the matter to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). In a written ruling delivered on November 21, Justices Peter Rajkumar, James Aboud, and Ricky Rahim emphasized that Eastman was obligated to adhere to the contract’s alternative dispute resolution (ADR) procedures before pursuing litigation. The court found that the ADR mechanisms were sufficiently detailed and enforceable, rendering the lawsuit premature. Justice Rajkumar, who authored the decision, noted that while the Arbitration Act allows for court intervention in urgent cases, such relief should be sought within the arbitration framework agreed upon by the parties. He criticized Eastman for bypassing the ADR process entirely, stating that the trial judge’s decision to stay the claim was justified. The court also deemed the referral to the DPP as ‘premature and plainly wrong,’ citing incomplete and untested evidence. Eastman, which supplied 29 laborers to Cepep, argued that the termination caused significant hardship to both the company and its workers. Cepep, however, maintained that the contracts were terminated under a clause permitting such action without cause. The case is one of two legal challenges filed against Cepep’s decision to cancel 336 extended contracts, with the other initiated by PNM MP Stuart Young, SC, seeking judicial review against the Cabinet and Cepep’s leadership.