AGP Executive Report

CCJ Governance Crisis: Caribbean Court of Justice President Justice Winston Anderson says he personally tried to broker a way out of Guyana’s judicial deadlock, admitting “another course would have been much better,” while continuing to deny claims of political interference as the fallout from leaked internal correspondence widens across the region. Judicial Oversight Fight: A top Guyanese lawyer argues the Regional Judicial and Legal Services Commission has no legal power to “review” or investigate the CCJ President, adding fresh pressure to the court’s internal accountability debate. Port Workers Wage Pressure: The Sea­men and Water­front Work­ers’ Trade Union (SWW­TU) is demanding the remaining 80% of backpay and overtime—about $337m—warning the Port of Spain and Point Lisas workforce could escalate action if the PATT Board doesn’t respond by Wednesday. Local Content Push: Energy Minister Ernesto Kesar says the Government will restart the Local Content Committee after a three-year gap, aiming to boost local participation across the energy value chain. Police Posts & Compliance: Deputy Commissioner Junior Benjamin says police are eager to use new posts, including Tacarigua, as local authorities allege legal violations and issue stop-order claims. Public Service Court Win: A prison officer wins a lawsuit over the PSC’s refusal to explain a disciplinary referral, with the court ordering reasons within 21 days and costs. TSTT Wage Standoff: Government warns it won’t be intimidated in the CWU-TSTT wage dispute, as the union signals industrial action despite claims telecoms are an essential service. Budget Timing: Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo confirms national budget preparations are under way for the 2026/27 cycle. Food Security Watch: Nutrien’s Trinidad nitrogen review continues with third-party site visits at Point Lisas, while farmers’ groups warn of ongoing agricultural and poultry supply pressures.

CCJ Governance Crisis: Barbados’ envoy David Comissiong urged Caribbean pride in the CCJ despite the current leadership controversy, arguing many people misunderstand the court’s mandate while the RJLSC probes internal issues. CCJ Jurisdiction Pushback: Former Speaker Ralph Ramkarran says the RJLSC has no legal power to “review” the CCJ President’s conduct or the leaked internal emails, adding that the unauthorized disclosure itself should be examined. Local Energy Policy: Minister Ernesto Kesar says the Government will restart the Local Content Committee after a three-year chair gap, aiming to boost local participation across the energy value chain. Public Service Accountability: A prison officer won a court case after the PSC refused to explain why he was referred to a disciplinary tribunal; the judge ordered reasons within 21 days and costs. Police Leadership Questions: PNM chair Marvin Gonzales is demanding answers on Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro’s whereabouts and whether an acting commissioner has been appointed. Crime Response on the Ground: In Siparia, police declared Sen(n)on Village and environs a “no-crime zone” as community groups joined a peace walk amid recent killings. Flood Control: Government stepped up flood control and road-clearing operations as heavy monsoon rains threaten communities. Industrial Relations Flashpoint: TSTT warned CWU that any industrial action over a 10% wage increase would be illegal because telecoms are an essential service. National Heritage Dispute: The National Trust demands full restoration of damage to the historic Cabildo fountain, warning Parliament that partial fixes would undermine the law and heritage protections. Energy Diplomacy: New Venezuelan gas licences are framed as a boost to T&T’s energy security and regional influence, with potential pipeline gas benefits. Sports Funding Clarification: SporTT and the Ministry of Sport corrected claims about Secondary Schools Football League funding, separating airlift support from board approval processes. Death Investigation: Dancer Jedda Beharry’s relatives say they will not speak until an autopsy confirms the cause of death.

Police Accountability: PNM leader Marvin Gonzales is demanding answers on Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro’s reported absence, questioning whether an acting commissioner was appointed after police sources said he took emergency leave and may be out of the country. Crime Response: In Siparia, police declared Sen(n)on Village and surrounding areas a “no-crime zone” as community groups joined a peace walk after a spike in gang- and drug-related violence. Energy & Regional Deals: Trinidad and Tobago could gain a new gas lifeline as Venezuelan Loran Phase 2 licences move forward, with experts pointing to potential pipeline gas to keep Atlantic LNG operating and free other supplies. Judicial Integrity: The CCJ crisis deepened as President Justice Vincent Anderson condemned leaked internal correspondence, warning it erodes judicial independence and public confidence. Public Procurement Scrutiny: OPR flagged flaws in HDC’s cancelled $3.4B housing project, citing gaps in supplier identification and due diligence. State Sector Turnover: A review found 67 people left state boards/public offices in 14 months, including senior roles across major entities. Steel Revival Pressure: Steel workers say they’re still waiting for clarity on Point Lisas revival plans and fear being left out of discussions after an MOU. Culture & Identity: Pan Trinbago announced a Steelpan Geographical Indication (GI) board to protect and certify authentic Trinidad and Tobago steelpans. Tech & Growth: Digicel says it’s increasing investment in T&T fibre and hiring as demand rises, while New Wave Road Solutions pushes EZ Street cold-mix pothole repairs across the region.

CCJ Crisis: Caribbean Court of Justice President Justice Winston Anderson issued a strong response to leaked internal emails, condemning the disclosure of confidential correspondence and denying claims of “panel fixing” or influencing judgments, as regional legal voices call for clarity and safeguards for judicial independence. Anti-Crime Rollout: Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander says Government’s anti-crime strategy is now being rolled out through stronger security staffing, mobile police posts, community-facing relationships, and planned changes to deportation law to stop quick returns by serious offenders. Housing Procurement Scrutiny: The Office of Procurement Regulation flagged procedural gaps in how the Housing Development Corporation selected and checked suppliers for a cancelled $3.4bn housing project, pointing to shortcomings in due diligence and pre-qualification. Energy & Jobs: Energy Minister Roodal Moonilal says T&T expects higher gas output by 2027 and is pushing mature field rejuvenation, while also confirming plans for a data centre in Golconda/Debe that residents hope will create jobs and spin-off business. Regional Court Watch: The Law Association of Trinidad and Tobago backs an investigation into the CCJ leak and warns against using internal disagreements to undermine the court’s role. Education Support: Acting Education Minister Barry Padarath says $20m in book grant payments could begin from August 24 as approvals are finalised ahead of the September 7 school reopening. Crime Detention Challenge: A businessman’s legal bid to overturn a Preventive Detention Order was dismissed by the High Court, with the judge finding sufficient grounds for the minister’s decision.

CCJ Crisis: Caribbean Court of Justice President Justice Winston Anderson has denied claims of “panel fixing” and influencing rulings, while strongly condemning the leaked publication of confidential internal emails and correspondence, saying it erodes public trust in the judiciary. Judicial Detention Challenge: A High Court judge dismissed a businessman’s legal challenge to a Preventive Detention Order tied to allegations of running a brothel and human trafficking, ruling the minister’s decision was sufficiently linked to the State of Emergency framework. Steel Plant Transparency: Opposition energy figure Stuart Young renewed calls for transparency on the Point Lisas steel plant reopening, questioning concessions, duties, rent terms, and the role of a liquidator in earlier investor processes. Energy & Gas Deals: Government confirmed new cross-border gas licences tied to Venezuela’s Loran-Manatee developments, with officials saying the agreements strengthen energy security and pipeline repair plans. Oil/Gas Infrastructure Spend: Energy Minister Roodal Moonilal says Trinidad and Tobago will invest over US$1 billion to repair deteriorating oil and gas pipelines and address leaks. Tobago Airport Timing: Tobago House of Assembly says it’s awaiting Cabinet direction on opening the new ANR Robinson terminal, expected about a month away. SSFL Funding Fix: The Ministry of Sport stepped in to fund inter-island travel issues, with SSFL set to revisit a 17-school Premier Division format after Tobago teams’ transport costs threatened their participation. Food Prices: Poultry depots report a prolonged chicken shortage is driving up depot prices, with some suppliers cutting back on chicken parts sold. Local Relief: Debe families received school bags and stationery ahead of the new term, as government-backed book grant payments are expected to start next week. Tobago Security Move: Stakeholders welcomed plans for a joint Coast Guard-police unit in Tobago, aimed at faster response around the Buccoo Reef Marine Park.

CCJ Crisis: CCJ President Justice Winston Anderson broke his silence, denying panel-fixing and influence in the Azruddin Mohamed matter, while condemning the leak of internal emails and admitting mishandling of two other issues—adding fresh pressure on regional judicial trust. Legal & Governance: Bar associations and Caribbean legal bodies are calling for probes into how CCJ correspondence was leaked and for tighter security around the Trinidad-based court. Energy & Diplomacy: Trinidad and Tobago will invest about US$1 billion to repair oil and gas pipelines after years of disrepair; meanwhile, Venezuela’s Loran-Manatee gas push moves into Phase 2 with BP, XRG and UCC, with plans to send roughly 7Tcf of gas for processing in T&T. Tobago Digital Plan: The THA outlined an AI-and-digital services vision, stressing connectivity and a Tobago ID to modernise public services. Sports Administration: The SSFL is set to revisit the 2026 Tobago travel format after Ministry support, following disruption concerns for Tobago teams. Regional Security: The U.S. expands its “Shield of the Americas” anti-cartel coalition, with Trinidad and Tobago listed among participating states.

Energy Diplomacy: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar met ExxonMobil’s T&T operations manager, Dr Bram Willemsen, as the company praised fast approvals for seismic work and hinted at possible hydrocarbon gains. Regional Energy Deal: Venezuela signed the Phase 2 licence for the Lorán offshore gas field with BP (operator), UAE’s XRG and Qatar’s UCC, a move framed as accelerating gas production after 23 years of talks. Local Governance & Security: Tobago’s Chief Secretary Farley Augustine says the THA has “zero objections” to police posts nationwide and backs mobile security posts as a proven crime-fighting tool. Food Security: Farmers’ Union president Shiraz Khan warns the chicken shortage could return in 6–12 months unless poultry sector problems are tackled, citing rising costs and heavy reliance on imports. Sports & Youth: The Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs cleared SSFL teams to travel for Tobago matches after intervention with SporTT and SSFL leadership. Caribbean Court of Justice Fallout: CARICOM chair Philip J. Pierre updated PM Persad-Bissessar on seeking a CCJ advisory opinion over the appointment of the CARICOM Secretary-General amid wider concerns about the court’s internal turmoil. Culture & Identity: A commentary reignited debate on whether T&T is becoming more “callaloo” or “tossed salad” as culture and identity disputes surface.

Regional Diplomacy: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar met Saint Lucia’s PM and CARICOM chair Philip J. Pierre to push health and crime-fighting cooperation, and to brief on a CCJ advisory opinion request tied to the CARICOM Secretary-General. Security & Defence: US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth used the Panamax 2026 exercises in Panama to urge regional partners to operationalize the Americas Counter Cartel Coalition against narco-terrorism, with Trinidad among participants. Energy Deals: ExxonMobil met with the PM on seismic approvals and potential hydrocarbon finds, while BP’s Manakin-linked push continues as NGC moves to acquire a 20% stake and BP expands Venezuela’s Loran gas licence in partnership with XRG and UCC. Justice & Governance: CCJ judges are locked in a judicial-dress dispute after leaked emails, with regional legal bodies calling for probes and caution over the court’s independence. Local Crime Response: Tobago THA welcomed police posts as an additional crime-fighting measure, citing earlier reductions in crime where posts were set up. Food & Agriculture: Trinidad faces a temporary chicken shortage blamed on searing heat, and the Agriculture Ministry is advancing a poultry hatchery PPP plus new approved egg/chick sources to stabilize supply. Public Services: EMA says Beetham Landfill relocation is planned within two years, but social impacts for livelihoods must be addressed first. Tobago Development: The new ANR Robinson airport terminal is nearing readiness, with a possible opening within a month pending Cabinet decisions.

CCJ Integrity Row: Regional Heads of Judiciary backed the Caribbean Court of Justice after leaked internal emails sparked a confidence crisis, stressing confidentiality and urging faith in the court’s independence. US–T&T Diplomacy: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar hailed a “historic high” in ties following US Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau’s visit, pointing to energy, critical minerals, trade and security cooperation. Point Lisas Steel & Vanadium: Opposition MP Stuart Young demanded more details on the US-backed Point Lisas revival, while economists and analysts said the real test is lasting benefits; separate coverage also flagged vanadium ambitions and the need to check the “fine print” of the deal. Security Posts Rollout: Police said an update on how the new joint police-army posts will operate is expected by mid-September, with staffing and operational details still being worked out. Crime & Courts: New PDOs were issued against alleged gang enforcers, as authorities continue targeted action in Moruga and Tobago. Economy & State Firms: Stuart Young warned that declining profits at First Citizens Bank and Angostura could reflect policy impacts. Food Supply Pressure: Poultry operators reported up to 50% fewer birds reaching markets, pushing chicken prices higher and forcing some businesses to cut staff or close. Tobago Development: Cepep workers in Tobago have begun transitioning into farming as the THA tries to lift agricultural output. Energy Sector Moves: BP’s Calypso stake deal and NGC’s Manakin interest were highlighted as further momentum for T&T’s gas landscape.

CCJ Crisis Escalates: Guyana’s GTUC has written CARICOM and the RJLSC urging an internal probe into “serious” divisions at the Caribbean Court of Justice after reports of alleged panel manipulation and leadership disputes involving CCJ President Winston Anderson. Contempt Warning: Guyana’s AG Anil Nandlall condemned “grossly disrespectful” attacks on Anderson, while Jamaica’s PNP says leaked CCJ emails won’t change its push for the CCJ as the final appellate court. Integrity Law Backlash: A local commentary argues the Integrity in Public Life Act is deterring top professionals from public service by turning integrity into intrusive bureaucracy. Food Insecurity Support: Brunswick donated 2,500 cans to SEWA International T&T and the T&T Food Bank, tied to its Colour Dash 5K drive. Food Access Focus: Another analysis shifts the food-security debate from availability and affordability to whether people can access healthy, nutritious diets. Energy/Jobs Debate: The T&T Chamber wants clarity on how constrained gas will be allocated for industrial projects like the Point Lisas steel restart, while economist Roger Hosein says labour market stability hasn’t yet restored economic dynamism. Prison Security Incident: Police and prison officers continue searching for a man who allegedly tried to throw a package over the walls of Port of Spain Prison. Community Safety & Rights: Calls for justice continue after the murder of LGBTQIA activist Kwasi Dion Gill. Youth Voice: UNDP highlights young people’s demand for a greater role in shaping T&T’s future.

Caribbean Justice Crisis: Heads of Caribbean judiciaries backed the CCJ publicly after leaked internal emails sparked allegations of “dictatorial” leadership and panel manipulation, stressing the court’s authority depends on public confidence. US–Caribbean Security: US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau announced US$2M for Guyana to boost airspace monitoring and drone capability, as Washington deepens counternarcotics and border security ties. T&T Prison Security: A man fled after being caught trying to throw a package into Port-of-Spain Prison; the Prison Officers’ Association renewed calls for upgraded CCTV. Steel Revival Politics: US officials hailed the Ibis Steel reopening at Point Lisas as a new chapter in US–T&T economic ties, while local analysts and economists urged scrutiny of the US$750M revival’s “fine print,” including vanadium supply and energy capacity. Energy Deal Update: The Energy Chamber welcomed BP’s assignment of a 20% stake in the Manakin block to NGC, framing it as stronger national participation in the Cocuina–Manakin gas field. Independence Planning: Sources say Independence Day fireworks and the parade are set to return after last year’s cancellations, with noise-control groups pushing for controlled, time-limited displays and possible drone alternatives. Labour & Rights: NATUC warned against using prisoners as “cheap labour,” insisting any public-space upkeep must be tied to rehabilitation and education.

CCJ Integrity Row: Regional heads of judiciary, including Trinidad and Tobago, say they’re “gravely concerned” about leaked CCJ internal correspondence, pledging confidence in judicial independence while refusing to weigh allegations on the merits. US-T&T Energy Push: US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau’s visit comes with fresh investor signals, including the restart of the Pt Lisas steel plant and momentum on Manakin-Cocuina gas. Gas Deal: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar says NGC will buy a 20% stake in the Manakin Field from bpTT, strengthening cross-border energy security with Venezuela. Prison Reform & Parole: Justice Ministry begins work with prisons, police, and the judiciary on proposals to modernise rehabilitation and prepare for the Parole Act, 2026. Prison Security Incident: A man fled after trying to throw a package over Port of Spain Prison’s wall; the Prison Service warns smuggling attempts are offences. Tobago Livelihoods: TobaGrow Loan launched for Tobago farmers and fisherfolk, offering up to TT$100,000 for returning applicants and 100% financing options. Culture & Politics: World Steelpan Day tributes from PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Acting President Wade Mark reaffirm government commitment to preserving the national instrument. Sports Governance: SSFL format for 2026 is still under discussion after Tobago schools objected to a travel-cost-driven structure. International Relations: Former Jamaican PM Bruce Golding criticises what he calls US “bullying tactics” toward Caribbean states, including tariffs, visa pressure, and diplomatic demands.

CCJ Independence Under Fire: Trinidad and Tobago’s legal community is reacting to leaked internal Caribbean Court of Justice emails alleging “dictatorial” management and attempts to influence decisions, with the Assembly of Central Legal Practitioners calling for an urgent investigation and Guyana’s bar and opposition leaders also raising alarm. Police Posts Debate: Tobago’s police chief says Plymouth will only get a post after consultation, while in Trinidad, Couva South officials discuss possible locations amid gang and piracy concerns—setting up a major test as the State of Emergency ends mid-September. Energy Deals: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar links renewed US engagement to investment and energy security, highlighting BP-NGC progress on the Cocuina-Manakin cross-border gas field and the Point Lisas/steel restart momentum. Steel Jobs Push: Business leaders back Ibis Steel’s Point Lisas refurbishment, pitching up to 1,000 jobs and first production by end-2027. Water Security: Government says desalinated water production has been ramped up to ease drought pressure ahead of El Niño, with Tobago exploring a mobile desalination option. Hilton Uncertainty: Hilton says it wants to continue its 64-year presence, but workers’ union leaders demand clarity as severance notices loom around the September 18 lease expiry. Storm Impact Watch: While the week’s worst weather coverage is largely regional, reports track rising cyclone/monsoon deaths and landslide risks in the wider Caribbean and beyond.

Energy Deal Watch: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar hailed a renewed NGC–bpTT partnership after BP agreed to sell a 20% stake in the Trinidad portion of the Manakin–Cocuina cross-border gas field, clearing the way for BP to push its final investment decision; she also celebrated bpTT’s move to take full control of the offshore Calypso project after buying Woodside’s 70% stake. Security & Policing: TTPS says mobile police units are meant to bring officers closer to communities without fixed posts, while Tobago’s senior police officer Rodhill Kirk insists any Plymouth police post must be shaped through consultation; in Trinidad, Barry Padarath says a Carli Bay police post is under discussion amid gang and piracy concerns. Crime Policy Timing: A criminologist warns the new 30 police posts could face their biggest test when the State of Emergency ends, arguing gang-related homicide gains may not hold. Labour & Business Pressure: CWU threatens to shut down TSTT if a 10% wage increase is not honoured, and presses the Government over Hilton workers’ job security as severance notices reportedly land ahead of the lease expiry. Justice Reform: Justice Minister Devesh Maharaj convened talks on parole, rehabilitation and correctional reform, aiming for a more modern, measurable approach. Regional Governance: The CCJ reaffirmed judicial independence amid allegations of discord among judges, with Badri-Maharaj calling for urgent action. Disaster & Diplomacy: T&T says no nationals were reported affected by a Colombia earthquake and expresses solidarity; meanwhile, the Philippines’ habagat and cyclones continue to drive major death toll updates and school suspensions.

CCJ Independence Under Fire: Leaked emails and allegations of “dictatorial” leadership and panel fixing at the Caribbean Court of Justice have reignited debate over judicial independence, with lawyers urging the public to wait for institutional processes rather than prejudging. US-T&T Security Push: US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau arrived for talks with PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar, as Washington deepens cooperation on security, counter-narcotics, border issues and regional energy. Eddie Hart Police Post Row: Despite a planned meeting between TPRC and Udecott, the Army/Police post at Eddie Hart Grounds in Tacarigua was installed, keeping pressure on ministers and agencies amid public concern. Crime Narrative: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar marked a “small milestone” of 10 days without a murder, before a killing ended the streak. Indigenous Visibility: First Peoples chief Eric Lewis called for greater recognition and policy support for Indigenous communities as ceremonies marked the UN Indigenous Peoples Day. Anti-Racism Complaint: The PM dismissed a racial slur complaint while the EOC confirmed it will proceed through its normal process. World Steelpan Day: Pan Trinbago and the Ministry of Culture and Community Development set performances and an ancestral walk for World Steelpan Day 2026.

US-T&T Security Push: US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau is set to meet PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar in Trinidad and Tobago and President Irfaan Ali in Guyana (Aug 9–12), with talks focused on shared energy and security priorities, investment, and a new push against transnational crime. CCJ Crisis: A Sunday Express report says five of the CCJ’s six sitting judges accuse CCJ president Justice Winston Anderson of “authoritarian” and “dictatorial” leadership, including alleged panel fixing and improper influence in the Mohamed vs MOHA/AG/Magistrate extradition matter. Digital Payments: Trinidad and Tobago will launch an India-based UPI payment system, aiming to cut cash use and payment costs while boosting interoperability. Energy Deal: bp has agreed to buy Woodside’s 70% stake in the Calypso gas project, moving toward full ownership and operatorship. Eco-Tourism Row: Caroni Bird Sanctuary tour operators face mounting pressure over alcohol, noise and litter, with calls for clear rules and stronger enforcement. Education: Literacy specialist Nicole Phillip warns that about one in three students read below grade level, calling for a coordinated national response. Tobago Football: Tobago Football Association president Everton Alfred condemns SSFL plans to omit Tobago schools from the Premier Division. Regional Weather: Philippines storm coverage reports hundreds of thousands affected by monsoon and cyclones, with deaths and evacuations rising.