PM Criticizes CARICOM Over 'Disgraceful Silence' on Top Official's Reappointment

Trinidad and Tobago's Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has forcefully challenged the integrity of CARICOM's leadership, accusing the regional body of engaging in a "corrupt backroom operation" surrounding the reappointment of Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett. Her strong stance signals a deep rift within the Caribbean Community, highlighting concerns over governance and transparency that resonate across the region.

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deliberate and disgraceful silence

Persad-Bissessar’s public criticism, particularly her denunciation of the “deliberate and disgraceful silence” from CARICOM foreign ministers, underscores her frustration. She claims these ministers were aware of evidence, including a WhatsApp message, indicating that Trinidad and Tobago's representative was effectively disinvited from the meeting where Barnett's reappointment was finalized. This alleged exclusion and lack of open communication have fueled T&T's accusations of a flawed and surreptitious process.

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corrupt backroom operation that rots the organisation to the detriment of the Caribbean people

The Prime Minister’s assertion that Dr. Barnett herself authored the statement defending her reappointment, which was subsequently issued by CARICOM chairman Dr. Terrance Drew, is a particularly damning charge. This revelation, if true, suggests a significant conflict of interest and a manipulation of official channels. From Trinidad and Tobago's perspective, as articulated by Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar, CARICOM must uphold the highest standards of governance. The nation insists that the organization cannot continue to operate under a veil of secrecy, especially when such practices undermine the trust and collective interests of the Caribbean people. This situation is not merely an internal administrative dispute; it speaks to the fundamental principles of accountability and fairness that should guide regional cooperation.

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crafted by GS Barnett