NAPA board member resigns: freedom, arts ‘undermined’

Trevon C Jugmohan has resigned from the board of the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA), citing his belief that democratic freedoms and the role of the arts are being undermined. In a letter dated June 1, 2026, Jugmohan informed Minister of Culture and Community Development Michelle Benjamin of his immediate departure.

Jugmohan stated his concerns had developed over time. As a cultural practitioner, he expressed deep sadness over the cancellation of last year's Independence Day celebrations, finding the decision inappropriate given the event's significance. He was also troubled by the renaming of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts to the Ministry of Culture and Community Development, which he felt removed explicit recognition of the arts and signaled their diminishing importance in national life.

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Whatever one’s political views may be, the image of armed officers forming a skirmish line against unarmed civilians is one that should concern every citizen of T&T. As artists, we are observers of society and guardians of expression. We are often among the first to recognise when the values we hold dear begin to erode.

The final catalyst for his resignation, Jugmohan explained, was the deployment of heavily armed tactical officers against citizens participating in a peaceful protest. He argued that the image of armed officers confronting unarmed civilians should concern all citizens. Jugmohan emphasized that artists, as observers of society and guardians of expression, are often the first to notice the erosion of cherished values.

Referencing historical events like the Canboulay Riots and the Hosay Massacre, Jugmohan warned that history often echoes. He stated his resignation was not driven by hostility but by national pride. He could no longer lend his name to a state institution while remaining silent about actions he believes erode artistic freedom, democratic participation, and respect for citizens. Jugmohan concluded by expressing profound respect for his NAPA colleagues despite his heavy heart.

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I therefore resign not out of hostility, but out of national pride. I cannot continue to lend my name to an institution of the State while remaining silent about actions and decisions that I believe undermine the values of artistic freedom, democratic participation, and respect for citizens.