AGP Executive Report

UN Security Council Win: Trinidad and Tobago secured a non-permanent seat for 2027–2028 with 181 votes, a 95% approval rate, backed by all five permanent UNSC members, as Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s campaign focused on small-arms trafficking, women and children in peace, and AI for global security. Local Diplomacy & Caricom: Foreign Affairs Minister Sean Sobers said the result highlights strong Caricom ties despite recent disputes over governance and Dr Carla Barnett’s reappointment. Justice for Ronaldo Singh: Grieving mother of 21-year-old Ronaldo Singh is questioning police accounts after his May 16 death in Sangre Grande, saying she believes he was not involved in a robbery attempt and is urging a full review. Parliament & Media Access: Media Association of Trinidad and Tobago (MATT) is seeking formal press availability after a year without a post-Cabinet briefing with the Prime Minister. Public Services & Accountability: A Tobago High Court judge rejected E-IDCOT’s bid to avoid the Freedom of Information Act, ruling it must reconsider disclosure requests tied to the Manta Lodge franchise agreement. World Cup Build-up: Rush Sports says it’s preparing a major regional broadcast push for the 2026 World Cup across Caribbean markets.

UN Security Council Win: Trinidad and Tobago has secured a non-permanent seat for 2027–2028, with Kyrgyzstan also elected for the first time and Germany suffering a rare defeat after losing to Portugal and Austria in the UN vote. Local Crime: Police are investigating the death of 23-year-old Venezuelan national Alexis Enrique Pineda, found in Morvant near 1st Caledonia Road; investigators believe he may have been killed elsewhere before being dumped, with a post-mortem pending. Sports—Darts: T&T’s James Walklin and Joshua Balfour have been drawn in Group J of the 2026 BetVictor World Cup of Darts against Latvia and Italy, with action set to begin June 11 in Frankfurt. Sports—Football: South Korea beat El Salvador 1-0 in their final World Cup warm-up, following a 5-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago last week. Health & Wellness: Tobago’s Division of Health and Wellness says it took part in a Personalized Health Conference in Switzerland to support digital health and a Tobago Public Health Observatory.

UN Security Council: Trinidad and Tobago has secured election as a non-permanent member for the 2027–2028 term, winning 181 votes in the General Assembly while nine countries abstained, and questions linger about Caricom support. Diplomacy: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar congratulated Austria, Kyrgyzstan, Portugal, Trinidad and Tobago and Zimbabwe, saying Pakistan will work closely with incoming members on peace and security. State of Emergency: Business groups are urging the Government to justify any extension of the State of Emergency with clear results, transparency and safeguards for constitutional rights, as the SoE is set to expire on June 17 unless extended. Protest restrictions: Trade unions and opposition figures are pushing back hard on the Government’s no-protest zones during the SoE, with CWU calling it a “galoping dictatorship.” Tobago jet ski tragedy: A Tobago father says he’s still awaiting justice after a jet ski accident killed his daughter in April, with police action ongoing and no charges yet. Crime & safety: Police report a woman rescued and a suspect held after a reported abduction in the northeast division.

UN Security Council Win: Trinidad and Tobago has been elected a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2027–2028, securing 181 votes and pledging to boost the country’s voice on global peace and security. Local Governance & Public Safety: The TTPS says no authorisation has been granted for an unauthorised “Walk for Peace” in Port of Spain during the State of Emergency, warning organisers and participants could breach current laws. State of Emergency Clarification: The Attorney General’s Office insists the State of Emergency remains in effect until midnight June 17, after misinformation claimed it ended earlier. Transport Dispute: The Maxi Taxi Association has called drivers back to work after talks with the Transport Ministry, though route associations will still decide on next steps. Tobago Water Safety: Jet ski operators in Tobago say they will comply with court-ordered safety rules around Buccoo Reef Marine Park, including distance limits from bathing areas and speed restrictions near shore. Agriculture & Community: MP Khadijah Ameen marked Corpus Christi by distributing seedlings and urging people to plant and buy local produce.

Maxi Taxi Disruption: As Trinidad and Tobago faces ongoing maxi taxi industrial action, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar says Government will assist drivers “in any way possible,” while warning it won’t budge on no-protest zones tied to the State of Emergency. Protest Rules Under Fire: Thirteen trade unions threaten legal action over restrictions that limit protests to 15 designated locations, arguing they undermine constitutional freedoms and labour rights. Commuters Feel the Strain: Ride-share demand has surged as maxi taxis disrupt travel, with operators cutting commissions and offering discounted fares to help commuters. Policing and Courts: The Appeal Court ruled TTPS’s policy of publishing mugshots of people charged with crimes is unlawful. Crime Update: Police recovered a firearm believed stolen from the San Fernando police station during an anti-crime operation in St James. International Spotlight: Trump has nominated Trinidad-born Jennifer Johnson-Carroll as U.S. ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, pending Senate confirmation.

Local Governance & Justice: Attorney-General meets top legal officials during a Trinidad visit tied to the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force meetings, including calls with the Caribbean Court of Justice and senior justice figures. Public Safety & Policing: TTPS moves ahead with body-worn cameras, issuing an EOI for suppliers as it seeks better accountability and public trust. Protest Rights Under SOE: JTUM and a coalition of 11 unions demand withdrawal of Legal Notice No. 40, warning 15 no-protest zones under the State of Emergency could expand and restrict constitutional freedoms; unions also threaten legal action. Water & Flood Resilience: Works Minister Jearlean John blames littering and weak enforcement for flooding impacts, while WASA says it repaired 30,709 pipeline leaks from April 2025 to April 2026; T&TEC works may disrupt water supply at Caroni from June 3-4. Crime & Security: South Trinidad saw at least six murders in 12 hours, and police seized 2,700+ illicit items in South Oropouche. Sports: Chris Richards Jr dominated T&T men’s golf trials; Gavin Manders won gold in pickleball mixed doubles at the ANSA Bank Open. World Cup Focus: South Korea’s late call-up story follows Cho Yu-min’s injury after a 5-0 friendly win over T&T, with Group A qualification odds also being discussed.

Transport Disruption: Trinidad and Tobago’s three-day maxi taxi protest has left thousands scrambling, with City Gate nearly empty, long queues for PTSC buses, and delays of 30 minutes to an hour for many commuters. Police Support: TTPS Commissioner Allister Guevarro ordered police buses to move stranded elderly and students from Port-of-Spain, and Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar praised the “outstanding leadership” of officers. Strike Impact on Students & PWDs: Parent groups urged restraint so CSEC/CAPE students aren’t affected, while the Blind Welfare Association said the shutdown exposes how public transport is a life-line for persons with disabilities. Ongoing Tensions: Maxi drivers say they face late or non-payments and illegal “white van” competition, and Tobago operators back the action while citing their own hub and payment problems. Crime & Violence: Six people were killed in separate incidents in south Trinidad within hours, including a stabbing death in Fyzabad.

Violence in South Trinidad: Six people were killed overnight in three incidents, including a triple murder in Ste Madeleine and a double killing in Penal, while police also reported a Fyzabad man stabbed to death in a domestic-related dispute. Drive-by shooting: A 33-year-old man, Christopher Sampson (“Brian”), was shot dead and a 21-year-old woman injured in Sea Lots; investigators recovered dozens of shell casings. Police accountability push: TTPS says it supports body-worn cameras and has invited bids for a body-worn camera system, with submissions due July 22. Gangs and protest tensions: Deputy Commissioner Junior Benjamin said no information has been received about gangs uniting to attack police, amid renewed political heat over protest restrictions and “no-protest zones.” Health scare: Chickenpox outbreak concerns hit staff at Sangre Grande Hospital, with nurses’ association officials saying only chickenpox is confirmed. Tobago governance: The High Court ruled E-IDCOT is not exempt from the Freedom of Information Act, ordering reconsideration of a request tied to Manta Lodge. Transport disruption: Maxi taxi operators began a three-day “rest and reflection” protest, leaving major Port of Spain hubs unusually empty and disrupting commutes.

Maxi Taxi Strike: More than 5,000 maxi-taxi operators are set to begin a three-day “rest and reflection” action today, expected to disrupt thousands of commuters nationwide and hit schools and businesses as drivers demand long-overdue fixes, including route hubs. Police Threat Probe: The 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. Airport Renaming Push: The National Council for Indian Culture is calling to rename Piarco’s Basdeo Panday International Airport, framing it as a tribute to Panday and a youth inspiration. UN Security Council Bid: Foreign Affairs Minister Sean Sobers says Trinidad and Tobago is confident it has done enough diplomatic work to secure votes for a non-permanent UNSC seat, though he won’t call it a sure thing. Judicial Independence: Chief Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh pledged to protect the judiciary’s independence and uphold equal rights and the rule of law. Sports—Korea vs T&T: South Korea routed T&T 5-0 in a World Cup tune-up in Utah, with captain Son scoring twice; defender Cho Yu-min later ruled out of the World Cup with a foot injury. Business & Energy: Touchstone Exploration reports oil production growth after new wells were placed on production, while Atlantic LNG Train 4 maintenance is underway. Public Health—Vaping Warning: World No Tobacco Day coverage highlights concerns that youth vaping is outpacing Caribbean policy, with flavours and online sales making products easier to access.

World Cup warm-up shock for T&T: South Korea thrashed Trinidad and Tobago 5-0 in a pre-World Cup friendly in Provo, Utah, with Son Heung-min scoring twice as T&T struggled to create chances. Local crime update: A 70-year-old man, Nanlal Bickram, was found dead in a concrete drain in Marabella after family members reported he was missing. Tobago policing: Officers in Tobago seized a gun, ammunition and cannabis during separate operations. Public order and justice: The Media Association of Trinidad and Tobago backed the DPP’s call for restraint on reporting tied to the Joshua Samaroo and Kaia Sealy case, stressing fair-trial concerns. Politics and governance: Opposition and media groups continue to react to the wider fallout around protest restrictions and the Samaroo-Sealy matter, while Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar condemned “sick and evil” calls for gangs to target police. Regional spotlight: The U.S. carried out another strike on a suspected drug boat in the eastern Pacific, bringing the reported death toll above 200.

Indian Arrival Day 2026: President Christine Carla Kangaloo used the occasion to urge Trinidad and Tobago to draw strength from the courage of Indian indentured ancestors, highlighting unity, respect and national service. Public Safety & Crime: A 51-year-old Proman Trinidad employee was shot dead in Couva while in his driver’s seat, and Tobago recorded its sixth murder of the year after Jalon “Lolo” Graham was gunned down near his home. Policing & Protests: The Police Commissioner defended protest restrictions tied to the Joshua Samaroo and Kaia Sealy case, while Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles accused the government of moving toward a policing state and said the state of emergency could be extended. Transport Disruption: Maxi-taxi operators warned of a three-day “rest and reflect” shutdown from June 1 to June 3, citing long-running industry issues. Earthquake: A moderate quake (about magnitude 5.0) was felt across Trinidad and as far as Grenada, with no reported damage or injuries. Diplomatic Security: TTPS launched a Diplomatic Security Unit to protect embassies, diplomats and international missions. Business: Butterfield agreed to acquire CIBC Caribbean in a US$1.79b deal, expected to close in 2027.

Protest Crackdown: Opposition and unions are blasting TTPS “no-protest zones” under the State of Emergency, with NATUC calling it an attack on democratic rights and protest leaders facing heavy police presence around the Kaia Sealy/Joshua Samaroo matter. Legal Caution: DPP Roger Gaspard urged restraint in public commentary as criminal charges proceed, stressing that charges are not proof of guilt. Police Integrity & Diplomacy: Home Affairs Minister Roger Alexander defended police amid public outcry and TTPS launched a Diplomatic Security Unit to protect missions and manage sensitive demonstrations. Transport Disruption: Maxi taxi operators confirmed a nationwide shutdown from Monday after talks failed, warning commuters of major service disruptions. Local Governance: Trinidad City Council voted to dismiss a municipal judge after a protest-related charge was dropped, but residents say water problems were ignored. Public Works: WASA warned of a major Caroni Water Treatment Plant shutdown starting June 3 for electrical works. Crime & Safety: CTU filed 29 charges in a human trafficking case from Rio Claro, while police seized 2,700 illicit items including unregistered male enhancement drugs. Culture & Heritage: PM and President marked Indian Arrival Day with messages on unity and the legacy of indentured labourers. Sports: Tobago’s Rondon Wilkinson won T&T’s first Pan Am youth gold in archery.

Police & Protests: Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles says the Government is pushing Trinidad and Tobago toward a “policing state,” after arrests tied to the Kaia Sealy Joshua Samaroo protests and new protest restrictions around State institutions. Bail & Crime: Two people were denied bail on human trafficking charges as the Counter Trafficking Unit pressed 29 charges in “Operation Purple Ryain.” Water Disruption: WASA warns of a temporary shutdown next week at the Caroni Water Treatment Plant due to T&TEC transformer works, with low or no supply expected in multiple areas. Transport: Maxi taxi operators plan a nationwide shutdown starting Monday after talks failed to deliver written commitments. Energy/Business: Occidental buys a 10% stake in Exxon’s Trinidad offshore block, boosting momentum for Atlantic LNG and petrochemical supply. Economy/Finance: Trinidad and Tobago Unit Trust Corporation reports nearly $35m profit for 2025, up $16m from 2024. Culture & Sport: Prime Minister marks Indian Arrival Day; Indy Eleven defender Anthony Herbert earns a call-up for friendlies vs South Korea and Russia.

Police Accountability & Protests: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar backed TTPS for moving to secure the DPP’s office during Wednesday’s protest, warning against intimidation of prosecutors amid the State of Emergency. Emergency Rules: Police Commissioner issued 15 no-protest zones, including a 500-metre ban around sensitive state sites like Parliament and the DPP office. Kaia Sealy Case: TTPS says Sealy is not being labelled a fugitive while she seeks medical treatment abroad; her lawyer argues her request for more time is justified. Court & Safety: In Tobago, a court lifted a five-week jet ski ban in Buccoo Reef Marine Park but kept strict limits, including no minors, no stunts, and bans around Nylon Pool and aggressive touting at Pigeon Point. Justice System Tech: TTPS confirmed steps to expand body camera rollout, with about 120 active units currently. Regional Diplomacy: CARICOM’s COFCOR condemned intensified US measures on Cuba, though Guyana and Trinidad & Tobago did not support the statement. Sports & Local Pride: Korea begins pre-World Cup friendlies against Trinidad and Tobago in Utah, while Trinidad’s La Borde and West Indies officials feature in World Cup umpiring appointments.

Energy & Production: Touchstone says two Trinidad wells (FR-1835, FR-1836) are now on production, averaging about 175 barrels per day, while Atlantic LNG Train 4 starts a 54-day maintenance shutdown and gas volumes are being redirected during outages. Regional Security & Diplomacy: Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago have refused to back a CARICOM call to scrap US plans for military action against Cuba, reserving their positions as foreign ministers issue statements. Money Laundering Focus: AG Anil Nandlall told CFATF meetings that conviction rates and forfeiture of proceeds from money laundering are too low across the region, urging closer judiciary training and engagement. Banking Deal: Butterfield has agreed to acquire CIBC Caribbean Bank’s 91.7% stake in a $1.8bn transaction, aiming to expand corporate, personal and wealth services across the Caribbean. Public Safety (THA): Tobago’s THA says it is willing to fund police training as child-safety discussions follow the Angelo Tobias tragedy. Sports: West Indies confirm 2026 home cricket plans—Tests vs Pakistan in Trinidad and Tobago (including at Brian Lara Cricket Academy) and additional series vs Sri Lanka and New Zealand. Local Life & Culture: A Chaguanas café profile spotlights Nick’s decades-old sandwich legacy, while “Chow Me” faces buzz after a $100 doubles bowl goes viral. Business & Trade: Trade and Tourism Minister Satyakama Maharaj says the government is targeting non-energy export growth from US$2bn to US$4bn by pushing private-sector coordination and forex generation.

CARICOM Rift Over Cuba: Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago held back support for a CARICOM statement condemning intensified US measures against Cuba, highlighting growing splits inside the bloc. Protest Crackdown in T&T: Police detained Kaia Sealy/Joshua Samaroo protest leader Alyssa Phillip, her mother and another person outside the DPP’s office as officers warned against gatherings amid rising public anger. PSA vs State on Backpay: The Public Services Association again rejected the State’s 40% cash/60% non-cash arrears settlement, insisting wages must be paid in cash. Tobago Jet Ski Ruling: A judge urged jet ski operators to seek alternatives to Pigeon Point Heritage Park after a fatal accident, pointing to modern ways to attract customers. Workplace Death: A garbage worker was crushed to death in Kelly Village after being struck by a reversing truck, prompting renewed safety questions. Cricket Calendar: Cricket West Indies confirmed West Indies home series in 2026 vs Sri Lanka, New Zealand and Pakistan, with Pakistan’s two Tests in Trinidad and Tobago (including a first Test at Brian Lara Cricket Academy).