AGP Executive Report

Sports & Local Pride: Trinidad and Tobago’s Soca Warriors suffered a late heartbreak, conceding twice in the final seven minutes to lose 3-2 to Haiti at Sabina Park in the Concacaf Nations League opener. Politics & Governance: Independent senators defended their constitutional role after Prime Minister criticism, as debate over the Special Operations Bill continues. Culture & Community: Carnival stakeholders are calling on the government to pay up after another delay in outstanding Pan Trinbago and TTCBA prize monies. Public Health: CARPHA and PAHO brought together respiratory virus surveillance and lab teams from 11 Caribbean countries in Trinidad and Tobago to strengthen detection and response to threats like influenza, RSV and COVID-19. Diplomacy: Dr. Indira Rampersad reviewed T&T’s UNGA engagement and its evolving relationship with Venezuela. Business & Travel: Subway T&T’s Ghost Pepper Bread promo winner secured an all-inclusive honeymoon trip to Cancún via Copa Airlines.

Special Operations Bill: Senate President Wade Mark broke a 15-15 deadlock with his casting vote to pass the Special Operations Bill, clearing it through both Houses, while Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar hit back at nine Independent Senators who voted against it, calling them “satanic” and vowing her Government won’t accept Independent amendments. Constitutional row: Senate Leader Darrell Allahar defended Mark’s deciding vote, while Independent Senators Anthony Vieira and Dr Marlene Attzs pushed back on the PM’s inflammatory language. Tobago security: Chief Secretary Farley Augustine welcomed Tobago’s inclusion as District 7, citing its maritime geography and saying “closed areas” powers are unlikely to be used often given the island’s lower crime rate. Public safety: TTPS says the end of the state of emergency won’t mean an “operational vacuum,” with Operation Watchtower continuing visibility and patrols. Road tragedy: Police report a fatal pedestrian crash on Guaico Tamana Road, with the Hilux driver arrested after failing a breathalyser. Diplomacy: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Venezuela’s Delcy Rodríguez met at the UN, describing the exchange as “very, very emotional,” and agreeing to deepen cooperation on trade, energy, security and visits. Energy business: NGC chairman Gerald Ramdeen says the company will shift its downstream gas commercial model toward longer-term, more certain arrangements.

Parliament & Security Bill: Senate President Wade Mark broke a 15-15 deadlock with a casting vote to pass the Government’s Special Operations Bill after a heated Upper House debate, despite opposition and independent senators voting against. Road Safety: The TT Unified Teachers’ Association condemned a viral video of schoolboys in St James Secondary uniforms taunting motorists by running in the roadway, warning “no game is worth a life” and calling for action by schools, parents and the wider community. National Honours: Former Trinidad Express editor-in-chief Omatie Lyder and political editor Ria Taitt received the Chaconia Medal (Silver) for decades of journalism service. Republic Day Politics: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar used Republic Day to tell UNC members the party is “no longer in retreat,” while President Christine Carla Kangaloo urged citizens to uphold republican values of dignity, equality and democratic responsibility. Weather Alert (Region): Philippines’ PAGASA warned of heavy rains and thunderstorms affecting parts of Luzon, including Metro Manila and nearby provinces. Energy & Jobs: Pro-man says it is cutting headcount amid constrained natural gas supply affecting operations at Point Lisas.

Special Operations Bill Fallout: PNM chair Marvin Gonzales accuses PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar of deepening divisions by signalling special operations powers could be applied differently depending on party control, while AG John Jeremie rejects apartheid comparisons and says limits are justified by violent crime. Procurement Safeguards Debate: Land and Legal Affairs Minister Saddam Hosein and Finance Minister Dave Tancoo defend the Public Procurement and Disposals amendments as protecting the “small man” and improving delivery, as critics warn the OPR’s oversight could be weakened. Policing After SoE: TTPS says the end of the State of Emergency doesn’t mean reduced intensified policing, with micro police units continuing patrols and drones after the SoE ended. Heat and Water Worries: TTMS issues a Yellow-Level Hot Spell Alert with “feels-like” temperatures up to 44°C, while Tobago faces drought pressure and water disruptions loom. Republic Day and National Honours: As T&T marks 50 years as a republic, leaders call for responsibility and democracy; ORTT awards announced for top public figures. Regional and International Moves: Venezuela declares the PM persona grata after UNGA talks, and T&T joins a US-led “Shield of the Americas” sanctions push targeting narco-terrorist groups. Sports: Tobago Open table tennis crowns Gabriel John and Linda Partap-Boodhan; football Nations League begins tonight for T&T against Haiti.

CCJ Crisis: Regional heads of judiciary say leaked CCJ internal emails breach confidentiality, with judges reportedly accusing CCJ President Winston Anderson of authoritarian leadership and panel manipulation, while stressing they won’t comment on individual allegations. Crime & Security at UN: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar told the UN General Assembly that firearms and drugs trafficking threaten small states, thanking the US for deeper cooperation and backing hemispheric anti-crime efforts. Special Operations Bill Fight: Opposition leader Penelope Beckles says Parliament is being rushed with limited scrutiny as debates run in parallel; Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander also urged citizens in PNM areas to push for the bill’s enforcement. Regional Anti-Narco Push: Guyana joined a US-led “Shield of the Americas” move to sanction and restrict 24 narco-terrorist groups, with Trinidad and Tobago among participating states. Energy Diplomacy: US Chargé d’Affaires Philip Kern reaffirmed support for T&T’s downstream energy sector as the country seeks more natural gas supplies. Local Politics & Legal Threats: Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath threatens legal action against CWU head Joanne Ogeer over TSTT-related claims. Business & Procurement: Business chambers back procurement overhaul for faster delivery but warn it must not weaken transparency and accountability. Culture & Language: The Oxford English Dictionary added Caribbean terms, including Trinidad’s “Trinbagonian” and “hornerman.” Arts & Music: Billboard named Trinidadian artist Coutain its Caribbean Up-And-Comer for September 2026; Lady Lava led the 2026 Caribbean Music Awards with four wins. Travel Deal: T&T signed air services agreements with Ghana and Panama.

Special Operations Bill Debate: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar says special operations will be limited to UNC-held constituencies and related districts, drawing sharp pushback from PNM senators and analysts who warn it could shift crime into PNM areas. Police Service & Prison Pressure: Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro and Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander defended the plan as impartial policing nationwide, while the Prison Officers Association warned the prison system is being set up to fail due to under-resourcing. Procurement Overhaul: Government proposes 10 changes to the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Property (Amendment) Bill, expanding exemptions and tightening OPR’s role after investigations, with Housing Minister David Lee insisting it’s not an attack on OPR. Public Services: Teachers’ backpay for 2020–2023 is landing in bank accounts, with Tobago still working through a manual process. Aviation Links: T&T signed air services agreements with Panama and Ghana to expand tourism and trade. Security at UNGA: Persad-Bissessar used her UNGA address to press for stronger international action against transnational organised crime and illicit flows. RRM Plaza Explosion: The RRM Plaza blast on High Street remains under investigation as power stays disconnected pending fire clearance.

Special Operations Bill: Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander backs PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s plan to limit special operations to UNC-held constituencies, saying it will help save lives and stop gangs from taking control. Opposition Pushback: Opposition Leader Penelope Beckles warns proposed procurement-law amendments would weaken the Office of Procurement Regulation, leaving more decisions to ministers. UNGA Diplomacy: PM Persad-Bissessar heads into key UN General Assembly talks in New York, including meetings with Venezuela’s Delcy Rodríguez, as Trinidad and Tobago seeks stronger regional cooperation. Blue Economy: Trinidad and Tobago and Panama explore marine research, marine tech and environmental sustainability partnerships through the Institute of Marine Affairs. Air Links: T&T and Ghana sign an air services agreement to boost connectivity and cooperation. TTPS Finances: Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro says an audit shows the $200m TTPS loan is only the “surface” of deeper financial and procurement problems. Carnival Cash Row: Carnival stakeholders question a “photo op” style cheque distribution even as prize money owed is expected to be paid. Marine Safety: Calls grow for stronger Tobago marine rules after nine people were injured in a Pigeon Point boating collision. Education: Teachers receive long-awaited backpay for 2020–2023, with most payments reflected on IHIRIS.

Special Operations Bill: The Government’s new Special Operations Bill is set to replace ZOSO, with “closed areas” potentially triggering permit-style movement limits for residents and others passing through. Political Tensions: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar says special operations will be limited to UNC-held areas and Tobago, effectively excluding PNM-controlled constituencies. Public Safety & Schools: Classes have resumed at San Juan North Secondary amid ongoing community security fears after a teacher robbery incident. Labour Watch: The CPO’s Office tells union workers the State must balance backpay needs with wider national priorities as PSA negotiations continue. Foreign Affairs: Trinidad and Tobago voted for a UNGA resolution allowing Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to address the General Assembly virtually after the US barred him from travel. UN Diplomacy: PM Persad-Bissessar is expected to deliver T&T’s UN General Assembly statement today in New York. Tobago Marine Safety: Two boats collided at Pigeon Point, injuring nine people including four foreign nationals, renewing calls for stronger marine legislation. Sports: Narine powered TKR to a dominant CPL win over the Barbados Tridents; Club Sando set for CCC semis vs Mount Pleasant; and Trinidad Chambliss’ LSU upset has him surging in Heisman talk.

SEC Spotlight: Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss was named SEC Offensive Player of the Week after throwing for 363 yards and three touchdowns in the Rebels’ 32-24 win over LSU, a result that also lifted Ole Miss to No. 4 in the AP Top 25. Heisman Buzz: Chambliss also earned AP Player of the Week honours for his Week 3 performance, with his next test set against Florida. Tobago Tourism & Safety: Four international tourists were among nine injured after two boats collided at Pigeon Point Heritage Park; injured passengers were taken to Scarborough General Hospital. Local History: A permanent Muharram massacre monument was unveiled in San Fernando, marking 142 years since the 1884 killings. Crime & Justice: A Tuschen businessman was granted $300,000 bail in the Bharrat Jagdeo bridge copper theft probe. Police Oversight: TTPS responded to claims by a recently released former detainee, saying it does not condone excessive force while legal action is considered.

Crime Prevention Push: TTPS is rolling out “Flip the Script,” focusing on early intervention to steer at-risk youth away from gangs, as officials warn youth violence remains a serious driver of offences. Judicial Integrity Row: The CCJ says it’s reaffirmed judicial independence and integrity after questions and allegations, stressing judges follow the UN Bangalore Principles. Public Safety Debate: Former police commissioner Gary Griffith says another State of Emergency would be unnecessary if policing and technology are maximised, while Tobago residents and Bethel businesses fear Special Operations could mean curfews, “closed areas,” and economic harm. Legislation & Rights Concerns: Communities in Port-of-Spain describe the Special Operations Bill as a “mental cage,” coming right after the end of the SoE. Local Tragedy & Violence: A St Ann’s man was shot dead by gunmen in police-style tactical gear, and investigators continue. Sports & Culture: Trinidad artistes won big at the Caribbean Music Awards, while cricket and CPL coverage highlights Falcons’ CPL title win and local talent. Community & Heritage: A permanent monument marking the 1884 Muharram massacre was unveiled in San Fernando after 142 years. Hunting Season Details: State game licences go on sale today for the Oct 1–Feb 28 season, with iguana hunting restrictions and fines reiterated.

Crime & Justice: A 48-year-old man was sentenced to 18 years after being found guilty of repeatedly raping a 15-year-old boy he befriended after the teen ran away from home in Laventille. Public Safety & Security Policy: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar defended the Government’s crime-fighting approach amid threatened lawsuits over Preventive Detention Orders, and concerns about the impact of new security measures in Tobago. Sports (Local interest): North Village Rams beat Paget Lions 2-0, with Jai Bean scoring twice, while North Platte’s Lady Knights split matches in Colorado, sweeping Otero before losing in five sets at Trinidad State. Regional Health: PAHO warns El Niño is strengthening and could raise health risks across the Americas, with drought, food insecurity, wildfires and flooding already affecting millions. Business & Travel: CAL is set to resume Caracas flights on Oct. 17, welcomed by travel operators as a boost for T&T–Venezuela travel.

Crime & Emergency Powers: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar says she won’t hesitate to call another State of Emergency if serious threats return, as the latest SoE ended at midnight Thursday and the Special Operations Bill moves to the Senate. Protest Restrictions Lifted: With the SoE over, activists and union leaders say they’re ready to return to the streets, while police insist any demonstrations must stay within the law after the 500-metre protest ban expired. Special Operations Bill Pushback & Support: Business groups back the bill as “long overdue,” while Tobago West MP Joel Sampson wants the Chief Secretary consulted before any Tobago “closed area” or curfew. Opposition figures warn the law could shift the country toward a “police state.” Sports (Local Name in US Spotlight): Ole Miss beat LSU 32-24 in Lane Kiffin’s return to Oxford, powered by Trinidad Chambliss’ 363-yard, three-touchdown performance and a late TD run.

Crime & Justice: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar says law-abiding citizens have nothing to fear as Trinidad and Tobago moves from the State of Emergency into a permanent framework for targeted operations against gangs, illegal firearms and drugs, with judicial oversight and parliamentary accountability. Special Operations Bill: Attorney General John Jeremie piloted the Special Operations Bill in the Lower House, replacing the defeated ZOSO approach and setting up seven policing districts with “closed areas” that can trigger curfews, cordons, checkpoints and other enhanced powers for limited periods. Rights Debate: Former national security minister Stuart Young warns the bill could turn the country into a “police state,” arguing preventive detention and rights suppression risks remain. Prison Security: Prison officers seized a DJI drone and 30 packs of Lucky Strike cigarettes after it was found on the rooftop of the Maximum Security Prison, highlighting how contraband traffickers are using new tools. Local Governance & Economy: The TT Chamber of Industry and Commerce is urging Budget 2026/2027 to fix the business environment, unlock private investment and create jobs through stronger public-private partnerships. Regional Payments: CARICOM is pushing ahead on a faster, cheaper regional payment and settlement system (CAPSS), with a pilot expected after further consultations.

Special Operations Bill Debate: Opposition MPs and residents are reacting to the Government’s Special Operations Bill, which sets up seven policing districts and allows “closed areas” with curfews, cordons and warrantless searches—sparking warnings it could erode constitutional rights and turn T&T into a “police state.” Body Cameras Row: Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander says TTPS will “work with what we have” on body cameras, while critics—including Pennelope Beckles and MATT—push for clear rules and stronger protections for journalists’ sources and equipment. Local Impact in Tobago & Trinidad: Tobago tourism stakeholders fear “closed areas” could hurt business, while Barrackpore residents are split on whether the measures will curb robberies and home invasions. Crime & Public Safety Moves: Police operationalised a joint security post at Eddie Hart Grounds as the SoE winds down, and investigators are probing seven human cadavers found stored in a refrigeration unit in Central Trinidad.

Crime & Security Transition: Trinidad and Tobago’s State of Emergency ends tonight after 199 days, with Police Commissioner Alister Guevarro warning detainees under Preventive Detention Orders that the next phase is already underway. Targeted Policing Rollout: Joint police and army posts at Tarouba, Grand Bazaar and Tacarigua are operational, and the government says specially designated units will move into seven districts under the proposed Special Operations Bill. Public Assurance: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar says law-abiding citizens “have nothing to fear,” with debates on the bill set to begin in the House. Prison Releases: The Prison Service reports 395 people released after revocation orders, with 174 still held on other matters. Energy & Industry: Energy Minister Roodal Moonilal met bpTT and NGC on the Manakin/Cocuina cross-border gas project. Transport Fuel Push: Proman and Dumore launched four methanol-powered Geely trucks on local roads, logging 17,000+ km in the pilot. Media/Telecom Watch: TSTT has widened its probe into former acting CEO Keino Cox over allegations tied to Hummingbird Holdings.

Special Operations Bill Overhaul: As the State of Emergency ends, the Government is set to debate a rewritten Special Operations Bill that replaces ZOSO, reshapes how security areas and curfews are declared, and adds safeguards plus a two-year expiry. Police Readiness After SoE: TTPS says three micro police units are now operationalised across Trinidad, with the CoP insisting police and the Defence Force are ready to “take back T&T from criminals.” Body Cam Capacity Question: Ahead of the debate, the CoP says only just over 100 body cams are working, citing battery limits, while critics challenge what happened to hundreds bought earlier. Crime-Fight With Oversight: A criminologist welcomes stronger judicial oversight but warns the law could become mere crime suppression if social interventions are sidelined. Tobago Carnival Travel Relief: Tobago revellers may get extra ferry sailings and more flights after initial booking concerns. Prison Service Update: 569 revocation orders were executed and 395 people released as of Thursday. Health Access on Campus: NCRHA launches patient care shuttle carts at EWMSC, with nurses urging caution over how the service is rolled out. Local Culture: TTFF marks 20 years of building a Caribbean film ecosystem, while Tobago’s Amari Douglas wins the 2026 Nevin Roach Award for steelpan excellence.