AGP Executive Report

UN Security Council Win: Trinidad and Tobago has secured a non-permanent seat for 2027–2028, winning support from 181 countries in the 3 June UN General Assembly vote, a diplomatic milestone Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar says will boost the country’s platform for peace, security and sustainable development. State of Emergency: The Attorney General’s Office says the state of emergency remains in force until June 17, rejecting social media claims it would end earlier, with the National Security Council set to decide on any extension. Sports Governance Crunch: After a meeting with the Sports Company of T&T and 15 national governing bodies, Minister Phillip Watts’ team reported no solution to sports’ financial problems, with NGBs warning they are “in real trouble.” Maxi Taxi Strike Fallout: The week’s disruption has reignited calls for resilient transport policy and work-from-home options, as commuters faced gridlock and rising costs. Anti-Corruption Push: Former AG Faris Al-Rawi urges the Government to fully proclaim remaining unexplained wealth and civil asset recovery provisions and to use them aggressively against illicit enrichment. Local Safety Incident: Police detained a suspect after a late-night attack in Arima left a woman severely injured, with residents demanding stronger security responses.

UNSC Win for T&T: Trinidad and Tobago has been elected as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2027–2028, winning 181 votes in the General Assembly and replacing Panama, with Austria, Portugal and Zimbabwe also elected unopposed in their regional slots and Kyrgyzstan taking the Asia-Pacific seat after defeating the Philippines. CARICOM Backs the Move: CARICOM leaders sent “hearty congratulations,” saying the result reflects confidence in T&T’s multilateral stance and urging continued regional advocacy on peace and security. Local Politics Under SoE: As the State of Emergency is set to run until June 17, business groups are pressing for “evidence-based” justification for any extension and stronger safeguards for constitutional rights, while unions and opposition figures continue to challenge protest restrictions and accuse the Government of overreach. Opposition Bench Shake-up: Opposition Leader Penelope Beckles signalled changes to the PNM Senate bench when Parliament reconvenes, following recent controversy involving Opposition Senator Janelle John-Bates and Faris Al-Rawi. Protest Clash in Port of Spain: Police arrested three people after a blocked “Peace Walk” in east Port of Spain, with authorities citing lack of permission and residents urging unity against gang violence. Tobago Justice Demand: A Tobago family says it is still awaiting justice after a jet ski tragedy killed a child in April, renewing calls for faster action and clearer accountability.

UN Diplomacy: Trinidad and Tobago has secured a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2027-2028, winning 181 of 191 votes in the Latin American and Caribbean Group race, while Germany failed in its bid and Austria and Portugal took the Western European seats. Public Order: The Attorney General’s Office says the State of Emergency is still in effect until midnight June 17, after misinformation claimed it had ended. Police Notice: TTPS says no approval was granted for a “Walk for Peace” march in Port of Spain today, warning that any unauthorised road procession could breach emergency-era laws. Local Governance & Food Security: St Augustine MP Khadijah Ameen pushed Corpus Christi planting with seedling distribution and urged people to buy local produce. Regional Economy & Trade: The US Trade Representative proposes new Section 301 tariffs tied to forced-labour findings, with Trinidad and Tobago listed among affected economies. Tobago Safety: Jet ski operators in Tobago say they will comply with court-ordered safety rules after a fatal Buccoo Reef incident.

Maxi-taxi standoff spills into wider disruption: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar says Government will assist maxi drivers “in any way possible” amid the strike, while warning that some demands may be harder to solve; at the same time, Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro says TTPS is preparing for a possible third day of disruption and is coordinating support for PTSC and commuters. Protest restrictions face legal fight: Thirteen unions threaten court action over State of Emergency no-protest zones, arguing the rules undermine constitutional freedoms and labour rights, while the PM insists protests can happen elsewhere and that sensitive sites must be protected. Rule of law in the spotlight: The Court of Appeal ruled TTPS’s policy of publishing mugshots of accused persons unlawful, setting a broader precedent for how charged individuals are treated. US trade pressure with global ripple effects: The US Trade Representative proposes additional Section 301 duties on 60 economies over forced-labour enforcement failures, including India and Guyana. US-T&T diplomatic milestone: AMCHAM T&T welcomed President Trump’s nomination of Trinidad-born Jennifer Johnson-Carroll as US ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, pending Senate confirmation. Sports and regional cricket: Cricket West Indies announced its 2026 home series schedule, with Trinidad and Tobago hosting a Pakistan Test series in late July/early August.

Protest Crackdown: JTUM and a coalition of 11 unions are threatening legal action over Legal Notice No. 40 of 2026, which sets 15 no-protest zones under the State of Emergency, arguing it overreaches and infringes constitutional rights. Public Works & Flooding: Works Minister Jearlean John told a disaster risk conference that littering and weak enforcement worsen flooding, while Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath said WASA repaired 30,709 pipeline leaks from April 2025 to April 2026. Disaster Preparedness: A disaster simulation is underway in Port of Spain with police, Defence Force, meteorologists and municipal disaster units, aimed at testing coordination and shortfalls ahead of hurricane season. Diplomacy & Justice: The Attorney-General met senior legal officials during a visit tied to the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force, while the Privy Council is set to rule in July on T&T’s “buggery laws” appeal, a case that could reshape Commonwealth LGBTQ+ law. Transport Disruption: Maxi-taxi operators remain dissatisfied after talks with Transport Minister Eli Zakour, with commuters still bracing for disruption. International Appointments: AMCHAM T&T welcomed U.S. President Trump’s nomination of Jennifer Johnson-Carroll as ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago. Crime & Enforcement: Police seized 2,700+ illicit items in South Oropouche, including unregistered pharmaceuticals and counterfeit goods.

Maxi Taxi Standoff Hits Port of Spain: A nationwide three-day “rest and reflection” protest by maxi taxi operators left thousands scrambling for transport, with downtown merchants reporting 15–20% of commuters arriving late and delays of 30 minutes to an hour. Commuters, Students, and PWDs Caught in the Middle: The Trinidad and Tobago Blind Welfare Association said the disruption is a life-line issue for persons with disabilities, while the National Council of Parent-Teacher Associations urged restraint because CSEC and CAPE exams are underway. Police Step In to Ease the Fallout: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar praised TTPS for deploying police buses and even TTPS maxi taxis to move stranded commuters from City Gate, targeting elderly and students first. Tensions Over Gangs and Protest Politics: Criminologist Dr Daurius Figueira urged that any alleged gang unification threats be named, after the PM condemned “sick and evil” calls for gangs to attack law enforcement; Deputy Commissioner Junior Benjamin said no such plans have been reported to him. Public Health Alert: Nurses’ association officials confirmed a chickenpox outbreak affecting staff at Sangre Grande Hospital, while denying rumours of TB or meningitis. Regional Diplomacy by Air: Trinidad and Tobago signed a new air services agreement with the Dominican Republic to expand overflight/landing rights and boost tourism and business links.

Public Safety & Security: TTNNA president Idi Stuart urged PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar to return to a “mother” role after she condemned union and opposition support for protesters amid claims of gang unity against police; Deputy Commissioner Junior Benjamin said police have received no information on any such plans. Violence Update: Police investigated a drive-by shooting at Sea Lots that left 33-year-old Christopher Sampson dead and a 21-year-old woman injured, with dozens of shell casings recovered. Policing & Accountability: TTPS launched an investigation into a social media video alleging threats to a police officer to drop a court matter, while also reiterating its push for body-worn cameras. Tobago Governance & Transparency: The High Court ruled E-IDCOT is not exempt from FOIA, ordering reconsideration of a request tied to Manta Lodge procurement and a franchise arrangement. Protest Restrictions Backlash: Nursing leaders warned about the new “no-protest zones,” saying they could block workers and unions from reaching decision-makers. Transport Disruption: Maxi-taxi operators begin a three-day “rest and reflection” shutdown affecting thousands of commuters and students. Health Watch: A chickenpox outbreak affected staff at Sangre Grande Hospital, raising workplace safety concerns. Foreign Policy/Regional Politics: CARICOM foreign ministers called for “unified action” and a dual approach amid major power rivalry pressures. World Stage: With the UN Security Council seat election on June 3, Trinidad and Tobago is running unopposed for the Latin American and Caribbean slot.

Maxi Taxi Shutdown: Over 5,000 maxi-taxi operators are set to begin a planned three-day “rest and reflection” action starting today, with commuters and businesses bracing for major disruption as PTSC capacity is expected to fall short. Police Under Pressure: TTPS is investigating a viral social media video in which a man claiming to be a police officer alleges death threats tied to a court matter, raising fresh concerns about intimidation and the rule of law. Judicial Independence: Chief Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh used Indian Arrival Day remarks to pledge protection of judicial independence and equal access to justice. UN Security Council Bid: Foreign and Caricom Affairs Minister Sean Sobers says Trinidad and Tobago is confident it has done enough diplomatic groundwork to secure votes for a UN Security Council seat, though he avoids calling it a sure thing. Public Safety & Policing: Police Assistant Commissioner Rishi Singh urged officers to serve with “class and dignity” and expand community foot patrols, while TTPS also launched a diplomatic security unit to protect foreign missions. Youth Health Warning: World No Tobacco Day coverage spotlights the fast-growing youth vaping problem and calls for stronger Caribbean policy responses. Culture & Heritage: Indian Arrival Day events continued to drive unity messaging, including calls to rename Piarco Airport after Basdeo Panday.

Parliament & Reform: Chile’s President José Antonio Kast heads to his first Public Account amid Senate pressure to approve his “megareform,” with critics pointing to fuel-price pain and fast cabinet changes. Commonwealth Rights: Sir Ian McKellen led a “Commonwealth Walk of Shame” protest in London against anti-LGBTQ+ laws still criminalising same-sex relationships across Commonwealth states. Public Order & Justice: In T&T, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar denounced “sick and evil” calls for gangs to unite against police, as the Kaia Sealy–Joshua Samaroo case continues to spark warnings from the DPP and pushback from media groups. Legal Process & Media: MATT backed the DPP’s caution on reporting that could prejudice fair trials, while former House Speaker Nizam Mohammed urged the LATT to act over alleged parliamentary witness-statement conduct. Security & Diplomacy: The U.S. carried out another drug-boat strike in the eastern Pacific, lifting deaths to 205, while the Philippines and U.S. completed maritime exercises near Scarborough Shoal and China claimed patrols there. Sports & National Mood: South Korea routed T&T 5-0 in a pre-World Cup friendly in Utah, adding to the week’s wider “crisis of trust” commentary. Economy & Governance: Business leaders say export-growth plans may be “success theatre” without enough detail, and a Green Fund probe claims under 1% disbursed over a decade. Health & Youth: A Caribbean-wide look warns vaping is outpacing policy, with nicotine risks growing among young people.

Indian Arrival Day 2026: President Christine Kangaloo used the May 30 message to urge “duty over indifference” and national unity, pointing to the jahaji bond and the sacrifices of indentured ancestors as a guide for today. Opposition & SoE tensions: Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles also marked the day, but pivoted to warning that the State of Emergency and new no-protest zones are eroding democratic freedoms, amid arrests tied to the Kaia Sealy/Samaroo protest. Policing & protest rules: TTPS launched a Diplomatic Security Unit to protect embassies and missions, while the wider protest restrictions debate continues to fuel political heat. Transport disruption: Maxi-taxi operators confirmed a nationwide shutdown from Monday June 1 to Wednesday June 3, citing unresolved industry grievances and lack of written commitments. Public utilities row: PNM MP Marvin Gonzales accused the Government of returning “criminals” to WASA leadership, alleging nepotism and questionable hiring since 2024. Regional politics & law: A major corruption sentencing abroad saw former TCI premier Michael Misick jailed in a landmark bribery case. International spotlight: Sir Ian McKellen joined a London march urging Commonwealth countries to repeal anti-LGBTQ+ laws—an issue that will resonate locally as Trinidad and Tobago faces renewed legal scrutiny.

Protest Crackdown: Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro has signed Legal Notice No 40 of 2026 creating 15 “no-protest zones” with a 500-metre limit around key state institutions, drawing sharp pushback from unions and opposition figures who warn it threatens constitutional freedoms. DPP Warning: Director of Public Prosecutions Roger Gaspard urged restraint in public commentary over the Joshua Samaroo and Kaia Sealy police-involved shooting, stressing charges aren’t proof of guilt and that media speculation could prejudice the case. Police Integrity & Security: Home Affairs Minister Roger Alexander backed TTPS officers amid allegations of misconduct, while TTPS launched a Diplomatic Security Unit to protect embassies and manage protests around missions. Human Trafficking Sweep: CTU filed 29 charges against two men in “Operation Purple Rain,” alleging exploitation of victims including minors. Transport Shock: Maxi taxi operators confirmed a nationwide shutdown from Monday after talks with government failed to produce written commitments. Local Governance Fallout: Trinidad City Council dismissed Municipal Judge Shella Bievens and removed the city attorney, but residents say water problems were left unaddressed. Opposition Claims on Vehicles: Opposition MP Marvin Gonzales alleged TTPS leased 51 electric patrol vehicles via a company linked to government contracts, raising fresh questions on procurement and transparency. Tobago Jet Ski Ruling: A court decision on jet ski operations at Pigeon Point/Buccoо Reef was described as balanced, with access allowed under nine safety restrictions.

Protest Crackdown & SoE Fallout: Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles says arrests of Kaia Sealy supporters outside the DPP are pushing Trinidad and Tobago toward a “policing state,” and she’s calling for an end to the State of Emergency. No-Protest Zones: TTPS says an Emergency Powers Order signed by Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro created 15 restricted areas, including within 500 metres of key State institutions, after Wednesday’s DPP protest. Police Accountability Push: TTPS confirmed it supports body cameras and says procurement for more is underway, amid ongoing public anger over police shootings. Use-of-Force Debate: Former Police Commissioner Gary Griffith challenged Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander over TTPS debt claims, while “Morning Edition” spotlighted police use-of-force policy and public confidence. Transport Disruption: Maxi taxi operators plan a nationwide shutdown starting Monday after talks failed to deliver written commitments. Human Trafficking Charges: CTU laid 29 criminal charges in “Operation Purple Ryain,” including allegations involving adult and minor victims and preventive detention orders. Regional Politics: Guyana and T&T reserved positions as CARICOM condemned intensified U.S. measures on Cuba. Legal Challenge on LGBTQ+ Laws: The Privy Council will hear a challenge to T&T’s anti-LGBTQ+ laws on 8 July in London. Economy & Business: UTC reported a $16m profit jump to nearly $35m in 2025; Butterfield agreed to buy CIBC Caribbean in a US$1.794b deal. Sports & National Team: Indy Eleven defender Anthony Herbert earned a call-up for friendlies vs South Korea and Russia.

State of Emergency Protest Crackdown: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar backed TTPS after police secured the DPP’s office and warned against intimidation of prosecutors, as a Legal Notice set 500-metre no-protest zones around key state sites including Parliament, the PM’s office and the DPP. Kaia Sealy Case: TTPS says Sealy is not being treated as a fugitive despite a warrant, while her lawyer argues she should get time to return for medical treatment; meanwhile, church and opposition voices are escalating pressure over police conduct and protest arrests. Police Accountability & Tech: TTPS moved to expand body camera rollout amid public concern over shootings, and a court acquitted an officer in an assault case after a road-rage incident. Tobago Jet Ski Ruling: A court lifted a Bucoo Reef jet ski ban but imposed strict limits, including bans near Pigeon Point and restrictions on minors and stunts. Regional Governance & Law: In Port of Spain, AG Anil Nandlall pushed for tougher AML/CFT enforcement and better judicial training, while Guyana signed a CFATF MOU for sanctions-related information sharing. International & Trade: Trinidad abstained from a CARICOM Cuba sanctions statement, and T&T signed an air services agreement with the Dominican Republic. Energy Sector: Paria Fuel chair Nyree Alfonso resigned, ending her tenure at the state-owned company.

CARICOM–Cuba Stance: Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago refused to endorse CARICOM’s call for the scrapping of US plans for military action against Cuba, with both countries reserving their positions while the bloc warned of a “Zone of Peace” being threatened. Human Rights & Law: A landmark Privy Council hearing is set for July on the decriminalisation challenge to Trinidad and Tobago’s LGBTQIA+ criminal laws, after earlier court rulings were reversed. Police Oversight & Protests: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar hit back at protesters over Kaia Sealy warrants, calling it “victim gimmickry” and defending police action. Economy & Trade: Trade Minister Satyakam Maharaj says Government is pushing non-energy exports from US$2bn to US$4bn and is backing a stronger private sector structure to drive forex earnings. Business/Finance: Butterfield agreed to acquire CIBC Caribbean Bank in a $1.8bn deal, aiming to expand banking and wealth management across the region. Shipping Costs: The Couva/Point Lisas Chamber is calling for a state investigation into shipping agents charging local fees in US dollars amid FX shortages. Sports: Cricket West Indies confirmed West Indies home Tests vs Sri Lanka and Pakistan in T&T, plus a 2026 home season that includes New Zealand ODIs shared with Barbados.

Parliament & Accountability: Opposition senators and UPP figures are pushing back hard after Senate President Alincia Williams-Grant refused MP Jamale Pringle and blocked the Senate Minority Leader from speaking during the Throne Speech, triggering a walkout and accusations of partisan procedure. Police Oversight & Public Trust: As protests continue around the Joshua Samaroo/Kaia Sealy case, TTPS says no permission was granted for a planned protest during the State of Emergency, while Opposition figures argue the “cloak of secrecy” culture around public prosecutions must end. Tobago Child Safety & Policing: Tobago Chief Secretary Farley Augustine again criticised police response in the Angelo Tobias-Plaza investigation, urging better training for crimes involving minors as the case moves through court. Regional Foreign Policy: Trinidad and Tobago reserved its position as CARICOM foreign ministers expressed “profound concern” over intensifying US measures against Cuba, with COFCOR’s statement also highlighting impacts on CARICOM nationals. Labour/Backpay Dispute: PSA reiterates rejection of the State’s 40% cash/60% non-cash backpay arrears settlement, insisting wages must be paid in cash. Economy & Trade: The Ministry of Trade says it aims to add US$2 billion in non-energy exports by 2027, outlining customs and regulatory changes to help exporters. Sports (Local Venues): Cricket West Indies confirmed Pakistan’s two-Test series in Trinidad and Tobago in late July/early August, with the Brian Lara Cricket Academy set for its first-ever Test.

CARICOM–Cuba Rift: Trinidad and Tobago abstained from a COFCOR statement condemning intensifying US measures against Cuba, while Guyana and T&T also “reserved” positions—keeping the region split on how far to push back. Central Bank–Tobago Economy: The CBTT met Tobago Chamber leaders on forex access, banking services, and financial literacy, with business groups asking for more data to guide small and medium enterprises. Tobago Jet Ski Rules: A High Court judge urged jet ski operators to seek other locations beyond Pigeon Point Heritage Park and Bucco Reef Marine Park after a fatal April accident, pressing operators to modernise how they attract clients. Regional Security & Diplomacy: T&T officials toured the US aircraft carrier USS Nimitz as Defence Minister visits the ship, amid wider Caribbean tensions tied to Cuba. Eid-ul-Adha Holiday Push: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar extended Eid greetings, while the Anjuman Sunnat ul Jamaat Association renewed calls for Eid-ul-Adha to be a public holiday. Finance Sector Talks: Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo met the Bankers Association and CBTT to deepen collaboration on market stability and proposed banking reforms.