Photo Credit: Times Caribbean
By Aaron Humes: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago has publicly condemned the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), labeling it a “dysfunctional” organization plagued by “rot” and internal “dishonesty.” Her remarks come amidst growing discontent regarding the planned reappointment of CARICOM Secretary-General Dr Carla Barnett, which Persad-Bissessar claims was shrouded in secrecy and political favoritism.
The Prime Minister’s sharp criticisms were aired during a recent statement, where she described the Secretary-General’s reappointment process as a “corrupt backroom operation.” According to Persad-Bissessar, the decision was made in a small, closed retreat setting that excluded Trinidad and Tobago, rather than being discussed during the recent official Heads of Government meeting held in St Kitts and Nevis. This exclusion, she argues, reflects a broader trend of the CARICOM leadership favoring “political allies over competent technocrats.”
Persad-Bissessar has also expressed concern over what she perceives as CARICOM’s foreign policy ‘misalignment,’ especially regarding its support for the Venezuelan government formerly led by Nicolás Maduro, which she characterizes as a “narco-government.” She criticized the organization for disparaging the United States, which she believes is Trinidad and Tobago’s most significant ally.
In light of her grievances, the Prime Minister outlined several demands for reform within CARICOM. She has called for complete transparency regarding the reappointment process of Dr Barnett, stating she would pursue the matter “mercilessly” until accountability is ensured. Additionally, she warned of potential financial repercussions, noting that Trinidad and Tobago contributes around 22 percent of CARICOM’s budget, and hinted at a possible reduction or withholding of those contributions if reforms are not implemented.
Adding to the discourse, distinguished Antiguan diplomat Sir Ronald Sanders suggested that Secretary-General Barnett should consider resigning. He argued that her continued tenure would hinder Caribbean integration efforts and worsen the ongoing rift within CARICOM: “If I were Carla Barnett, I would resign now, on principle because she will never have, Kamla Persad-Bissessar will not attend the meeting if Carla Barnett is at that meeting, neither will her foreign minister and I suspect none of our ministers will attend either.”
The reaction from regional leaders has been swift and critical. Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne rebuked Persad-Bissessar’s stance, interpreting her comments as a sign of “silence and deference” to the United States. On the domestic front, Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles-Robinson condemned the Prime Minister’s rhetoric as “irrational” and “potentially damaging” to Trinidad and Tobago’s economic interests within the region.
Secretary-General Barnett is currently engaged in the Forum of the Countries of Latin America and the Caribbean on Sustainable Development in Santiago, Chile. Belize continues to support her role as the region’s leading representative.
The post Trinidad and Tobago’s PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar launches scathing attack on CARICOM leadership appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Photo Credit: Times Caribbean By Aaron Humes: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago has publicly condemned the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), labeling it a “dysfunctional” organization plagued by “rot” and internal “dishonesty.” Her remarks come amidst growing discontent regarding the planned reappointment of CARICOM Secretary-General Dr Carla Barnett, which Persad-Bissessar claims was shrouded in
The post Trinidad and Tobago’s PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar launches scathing attack on CARICOM leadership appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
