标签： Trinidad and Tobago

In a heated parliamentary session on November 21, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago found herself at the center of a political storm. The incident, involving Diego Martin North/East MP Colm Imbert, has sparked a robust defense from the United National Congress (UNC) leadership and its women’s league. Barry Padarath, Leader of Government Business and Public Utilities Minister, firmly stated that Persad-Bissessar has no need to apologize for her remarks, emphasizing that the UNC will not tolerate intimidation from any quarter. Padarath described the exchange as a response to what he termed ‘political molestation’ by Imbert, asserting that the Prime Minister stood up for herself and others who have faced similar denigration from the People’s National Movement (PNM). He highlighted a history of ‘disgusting and vile attacks’ by the PNM, questioning the silence of civil society during such incidents. The UNC Women’s League echoed Padarath’s sentiments, praising Persad-Bissessar for her strength and composure under provocation. They criticized the PNM Women’s League for demanding an apology, labeling it a misogynistic double standard. The league argued that the video evidence clearly showed Imbert’s behavior as the root of the conflict, characterizing it as ‘male intimidation’ rather than parliamentary debate. The incident unfolded during a debate on the virtual assets bill, where Persad-Bissessar and Imbert clashed over procedural matters. Imbert’s pointed remarks led to Persad-Bissessar’s sharp retort, ‘Because I will cuff you down,’ which has since become a focal point of the controversy. Padarath reiterated that the UNC will not apologize for defending itself, signaling a shift in the political dynamics of Trinidad and Tobago.

The historical ties between Trinidad and Venezuela trace back approximately 7,000 years, originating with the migration of the Warao people from the Orinoco Basin. This connection predates the geological separation of the land masses. Venezuelan Ambassador Alvaro Cordero recently highlighted this shared heritage, emphasizing the Latin American and Spanish influences deeply embedded in Trinidad and Tobago’s culture, music, and cuisine.

Familial bonds between the two nations have flourished since the 1950s, with Venezuelan students residing in Trinidad’s Woodbrook area, fostering close interactions and intermarriages. These relationships have evolved into enduring family exchanges, exemplified by the Allahar-Smith clan, whose matriarch, Tia Trina, remains a central figure in Woodbrook.

Political relations have also been significant, with Venezuelan leaders seeking refuge in Trinidad during turbulent times. However, Venezuela’s political stance, particularly its divergence from U.S. perspectives, has made it a target in global power struggles, especially given its vast oil reserves.

Despite criticisms of the Maduro regime and broader political challenges, there is an anticipation of renewed diplomatic engagements. However, caution is advised regarding interactions with senior officials, as past incidents, such as the verbal abuse directed at former Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, underscore the need for respectful dialogue.

Haven Allahar and Anton Allahar reflect on these historical, cultural, and political connections, urging a thoughtful approach to future relations.

Dr Amery Browne, an opposition senator and vice-chairman of the People’s National Movement (PNM), has formally reported online death threats made against him and his family to the police. The incident, disclosed in a Facebook post on November 22, marks a troubling escalation in the political landscape of Trinidad and Tobago. Browne, who previously served as Minister of Foreign and Caricom Affairs under both the Patrick Manning and Dr Keith Rowley administrations, shared screenshots of the threatening comments posted on his Facebook wall. He emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, ‘I have been involved in active politics since 2007 and have never encountered anything like this.’ Browne assured the public that he is treating the matter with utmost seriousness, highlighting the need for accountability and security in the face of such threats.

The Trinidad and Tobago Parliament witnessed a tumultuous session on November 21, 2025, as the debate over the Virtual Assets and Virtual Assets Service Providers Bill descended into procedural chaos. The bill, aimed at regulating the cryptocurrency industry, became a focal point of contention when over 200 proposed amendments were handed to the opposition mere minutes before the debate commenced. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo, who introduced the bill in September, had previously engaged with stakeholders, including Attorney General John Jeremie, Central Bank Governor Larry Howai, and crypto industry representatives, to refine the legislation. However, the late disclosure of amendments sparked outrage among opposition members. Diego Martin East MP Colm Imbert led the charge, accusing the government of undermining parliamentary principles by failing to provide adequate time for review. Imbert described the amendments as a ‘contempt of Parliament,’ arguing that they fundamentally altered the bill’s structure and intent. The procedural impasse left both sides unable to meaningfully debate the proposed changes, leading to what Imbert termed a ‘pappy-show.’ Despite the controversy, the bill was eventually passed with a vote of 25-11 after amendments were discussed in the committee stage. The legislation is critical for Trinidad and Tobago’s compliance with Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (C-FATF) recommendations ahead of a March 2026 on-site assessment. While the opposition supports cryptocurrency regulation, they criticized the bill as draconian and anti-innovation, warning it could stifle entrepreneurship and drive away innovators. Jeremie defended the government’s approach, emphasizing the need for stakeholder consultation and timely compliance with international standards.