AGP Executive Report

UN Diplomacy: Trinidad and Tobago has secured a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2027–2028, winning 181 votes and getting backing from all five permanent members, with Foreign Affairs Minister Sean Sobers calling it a sign of strong Caricom ties. Church & Society: Roman Catholic Archbishop Jason Gordon urged a “change of heart” during Corpus Christi observances, warning materialism and selfishness are weakening the nation’s social fabric, while Anglican Archbishop Philip Wright said the church must reach people facing poverty and addiction. Local Governance & Courts: A Tobago High Court judge rejected E-IDCOT’s attempt to block Freedom of Information requests, ruling the company can’t dodge transparency duties tied to its public function. Politics & Parliament: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar is set to speak as Parliament’s Second Session opens, with attention on whether a mid-year Finance bill and Opposition Senate changes will be revealed. Sports (T&T): The Soca Warriors were thrashed 5-0 by South Korea in a World Cup warm-up, and T&T’s darts pair James Walklin and Joshua Balfour have been drawn for the World Cup of Darts in Frankfurt starting June 11. Business & Jobs: The Trinidad Hilton dispute continues as the union warns of possible displacement, while the minister says workers won’t be affected.

UN Security Council: Trinidad and Tobago has secured a non-permanent UNSC seat for 2027–2028, joining Austria, Portugal, Zimbabwe and first-timer Kyrgyzstan after Germany’s bid collapsed in the vote. Sports (T&T football): T&T’s men’s team learned from a 5-0 friendly loss to South Korea in Provo, with captain Son Heung-min scoring twice and new head coach Derek King taking charge for the match. Local crime: A 23-year-old Venezuelan national, Alexis Enrique Pineda, was found dead in Morvant near 1st Caledonia Road; TTPS says investigators believe he may have been killed elsewhere before being dumped. Public service: CXC and the Virgin Islands launched a customer service transformation programme aimed at improving efficiency and accountability across the public service. Health (Tobago): DHW Tobago took part in a personalized health conference in Switzerland to support digital transformation and a Tobago Public Health Observatory. Business/entrepreneurship: Krystle Phillips argues Caribbean entrepreneurs’ stress is often structural—bad systems, unclear roles and broken processes—not personal failure.

UN Security Council: Trinidad and Tobago has been elected a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2027–2028, but questions linger over Caricom support after nine countries abstained and T&T received 181 votes. Diplomacy: Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar congratulated Austria, Kyrgyzstan, Portugal, T&T and Zimbabwe on their UNSC wins. Crime & safety: Seven homicides in less than 24 hours have shaken the country, including a stabbing, a double homicide and a triple homicide in south Trinidad. State of Emergency & protests: Business groups are urging the Government to justify any extension of the State of Emergency with clear results and safeguards for rights, while unions and opposition leaders continue to challenge protest restrictions. Tobago justice: A Tobago family says it is still awaiting justice after a jet ski tragedy killed a child, with the investigation ongoing. Sports: South Korea edged El Salvador 1-0 in their final World Cup tune-up, after earlier routing Trinidad and Tobago 5-0.

UN Security Council Win: Trinidad and Tobago has secured a non-permanent seat for 2027–2028, winning 181 votes and returning to the UNSC after more than two decades, with the campaign focused on small-arms trafficking, women and children in peace and security, and AI’s role in global security. Regional Diplomacy: Austria, Portugal and Zimbabwe also won seats, while Germany failed in its bid and Kyrgyzstan edged the Philippines after multiple voting rounds. Weather Watch: A multi-day spell of heavy rainfall is forecast across the Caribbean as an Eastern Pacific cyclone and tropical waves develop, with impacts expected from midweek into the weekend. Public Order Under SoE: The TTPS says no authorisation has been granted for a proposed “Walk for Peace” in Port of Spain today, warning that gatherings and marches are tightly regulated under the State of Emergency. Road Safety: A Venezuelan woman died days after an electric scooter crash in Cunupia; police say the driver was over the legal alcohol limit and the scooter was unlicensed. Tobago Update: Jet ski operators in Tobago say they will comply with new safety rules after a court decision tied to the Buccoo Reef Marine Park.

Maxi Taxi Disruption: The nationwide maxi taxi strike is driving a surge in ride-share demand, with operators cutting commissions and offering discounted fares as commuters struggle to get to work and school. Transport Policy Clash: Former Transport Minister Jack Warner says calls to raise the maxi taxi speed limit from 65 km/h to 80 km/h should be rejected until operators prove they can obey current rules. Government Responsibility Fight: Ministers are trading blame over who handles maxi taxi hub and terminal upgrades, while a “checkered-band” system is being discussed. Protest Restrictions Under Fire: Thirteen unions threaten legal action over State of Emergency no-protest zones, as PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar insists the rules stand and says protests can happen elsewhere. Courts & Police Accountability: The Appeal Court ruled TTPS’s mugshot publication policy unlawful. Crime Update: Police recovered a firearm linked to the San Fernando police station break-in and detained three men. Diaspora Spotlight: US President Donald Trump nominated Trinidad-born Jennifer Johnson-Carroll as US Ambassador to T&T. Football: South Korea’s World Cup preparations continue in Utah as defender Cho Yu-min is ruled out with injury, while Son Heung-min faces pressure over a scoring slump.

Diplomacy: US President Donald Trump has nominated Trinidad-born Jennifer Johnson-Carroll as the next US ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, with AMCHAM T&T calling it a historic milestone if confirmed. Crime & Security: TTPS says a firearm believed stolen from the San Fernando Police Station has been recovered, with three men detained during an anti-crime operation in St James. Public Safety & Rights: The Joint Trade Union Movement is urging the immediate withdrawal of Legal Notice No. 40 of 2026, which sets 15 no-protest zones under the State of Emergency, while trade unions threaten legal action over the restrictions. Infrastructure & Flooding: Works Minister Jearlean John blamed littering for worsening flooding, as she urged a culture shift on waste disposal and enforcement. Water Update: WASA says it repaired 30,709 pipeline leaks between April 2025 and April 2026, and warns of a Caroni Water Treatment Plant shutdown affecting parts of North, Central and South Trinidad on June 3-4. Sports: Chris Richards Jr dominated the T&T men’s golf national trials; and in football, South Korea’s late World Cup call-up story continues after Cho Yu-min’s injury.

Maxi Taxi Strike Fallout: Police deployed buses to shuttle stranded commuters during the three-day maxi taxi protest, with PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar praising TTPS for stepping in to help workers, students and vulnerable citizens. Transport Strain for Everyone: Downtown merchants said 15–20% of commuters were late due to route disruptions, while the Blind Welfare Association warned the strike exposed major barriers for persons with disabilities. Tobago Joins In: Tobago maxi drivers backed the action, citing their own long-running issues including late payments and a lack of proper hubs. Violence in the South: Six people were killed in separate incidents across southern Trinidad, including a triple murder in Ste Madeleine, a double murder in Penal, and a stabbing death in Fyzabad. School Safety Concern: Parents raised alarms after a fight at ASJA Girls’ College, calling for stronger intervention and reassurance. Mental Health Push: The new “I Matter Movement” launched to tackle depression and stigma, offering community-based support. Sports: Cricket West Indies begins a regional fast-bowling assessment camp in Antigua, while South Korea’s World Cup tune-up saw a 5-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago ahead of a final match vs El Salvador.

UWI Appointments: The University of the West Indies promoted eight senior lecturers to Professor ranks, spanning psychology, applied mathematics, econometrics, music, veterinary public health, international relations, and environment/development economics. Mental Health Push: Trinidad and Tobago’s “I Matter Movement” was launched to tackle the depression and suicide crisis, offering personalised care and community support. Violence Update: Police reported fresh bloodshed in southern Trinidad, including a triple murder in Ste Madeleine, a double killing in Penal, and a fatal stabbing in Fyzabad, while investigators also followed up a Sea Lots drive-by that left one man dead and a woman injured. Public Health Concern: Chickenpox outbreak fears hit Sangre Grande Hospital staff, with nurses’ association officials saying it’s confirmed chickenpox and not TB or meningitis. 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 “rest and reflection” action is set to affect commuters and students over three days. Sports & Culture: KestheBand made history by selling out Vancouver’s Commodore Ballroom, while South Korea thrashed Trinidad and Tobago 5-0 in a World Cup warm-up.

Police Probe Threats: TTPS is investigating a viral social media video in which a man claiming to be a police officer alleges he received death threats linked to a court matter, including a brown envelope with three 5.56mm bullets and warnings to drop the case. National Identity & Culture: NCIC is calling to rename Piarco/Basdeo Panday International Airport, framing it as a tribute to Panday and a youth inspiration tied to Indian Arrival Day. World Cup Build-Up: South Korea crushed T&T 5-0 in a pre-World Cup friendly, with Son Heung-min scoring twice; defender Cho Yu-min was later ruled out for eight weeks after a foot injury. Transport Disruption: Maxi taxi operators begin a three-day strike today, with business leaders warning of major knock-on effects for commuters and the economy. Public Health Focus: A World No Tobacco Day piece highlights how vapes marketed as “harmless” and “nicotine-free” can still appeal to teens and normalise vaping. Sports & Local Talent: Keshorn Walcott won Diamond League bronze in Rabat, while Tessica Laurence reset T&T U20 pole vault records again at Hasely Crawford Stadium.

Indian Arrival Day: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar marked 181 years since the first East Indian indentured immigrants landed, linking the “kala pani” journey to her family’s story and calling for unity and respect. India-T&T Business Ties: At the Indian Arrival Day breakfast, the T&T-India Business Federation pushed economic diversification, including an MOU on a pharmaceutical corporation and digital payments links, while the Indian High Commissioner flagged hurdles accessing OCI cards. Sports (T&T Football): South Korea routed Trinidad and Tobago 5-0 in a World Cup warm-up at BYU South Field in Provo, with Son Heung-min scoring twice and Cho Gue-sung adding two more. Public Order & Justice: MATT backed the DPP’s call for restraint in the Joshua Samaroo/Kaia Sealy case, while the PM condemned “sick and evil” rhetoric urging gangs to attack police. Tobago Crime: Police seized a gun, ammunition and cannabis in Tobago operations, after a beach robbery where a victim grabbed the firearm. Regional Security: The US said it struck another suspected drug-smuggling boat, bringing the death toll above 200 amid legal criticism. Food Security: CARDI highlighted a successful black-eyed peas pilot harvest in Trinidad, aimed at boosting local production and school feeding.

Indian Arrival Day: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar marked 181 years since the Fatel Razack landing, linking the “jahajis’” journey to today’s descendants and calling it living memory. Public Order & Protests: She also condemned “sick and evil” calls for gangs to unite against police amid the Joshua Samaroo–Kaia Sealy case, while the DPP and MATT urged restraint to protect fair-trial rights. Legal Heat: Nizam Mohammed pressed LATT to act over alleged “track changes” involving Opposition senators in the Sealy-Samaroo matter. UWI Student Numbers: UWI-linked economist Dr Anthony Gonzales says falling enrolment is driven largely by poverty and more competing degree options. Business & Exports: Chamber leader Diane Hadad backs diversification plans but says more detail is needed to answer business concerns. Sports: South Korea routed T&T 5-0 in a pre-World Cup friendly, with Son Heung-min scoring twice. Crime & Safety: Tobago mourns the gunning down of 21-year-old Jalon “Lolo” Graham in Union. Environment: Green Fund spending remains a concern, with less than 1% disbursed over a decade. Culture & Youth: Badminton gets a boost through a girls’ Shuttle Smash programme; Tobago kicks off its fifth annual Carnival festival.

Indian Arrival Day 2026: President Christine Carla Kangaloo urged citizens to draw strength from the courage of Indian indentured ancestors, highlighting unity, respect and national service as T&T marks 181 years since the 1845 landing. State of Emergency protest row: Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles says the Government is trying to justify an extension of the SoE after TTPS designated 15 “no-protest zones” within 500 metres of key state institutions, sparking union and political backlash. Transport disruption: Maxi taxi operators confirmed a nationwide shutdown from Monday after talks with Government officials failed to deliver written commitments on long-running sector issues. Air travel connectivity: Tourism Minister Marsha Henderson says Caribbean Airlines cut St Kitts routes without consulting the Government, while St Kitts officials say they were not given a chance to negotiate concessions or support. Earthquake update: A moderate 5.0 quake was felt across North and Northwest Trinidad and parts of Grenada; authorities report no injuries or damage. Regional business: Bankers Association of Trinidad and Tobago welcomed recent talks with Government and the Central Bank to strengthen the financial system. Banking deal: Butterfield agreed to acquire CIBC Caribbean in a US$1.79b transaction, aiming to build a larger regional banking group.

Finance Talks: The Bankers Association of Trinidad and Tobago says it welcomed fresh talks between the Government, the Central Bank and the banking sector, calling dialogue key to keeping the financial system resilient and supporting economic growth. Earthquake Watch: A moderate 5.0 quake struck Friday evening, felt across North and Northwest Trinidad and as far as Grenada, with no reports of damage or utility disruption. Public Order Under SoE: Police have designated 15 “no-protest zones” around key state institutions, drawing sharp pushback from unions and Opposition figures who warn it threatens democratic freedoms; the DPP also urged restraint in media coverage of the Joshua Samaroo case. Protest & Policing Tensions: Heavy police presence met a planned “Justice for Kaia Sealy” silent protest outside the Forensic Science Centre, while TTPS continues to restrict access around the area. Transport Disruption: Maxi taxi operators confirmed a nationwide shutdown from Monday after talks with Government failed to produce written commitments. Crime & Justice: The CTU charged two men in a major human trafficking case in Rio Claro, and the DPP reiterated that laying charges is not proof of guilt. Water & Daily Life: WASA warned of a Caroni Water Treatment Plant shutdown starting June 3 night, likely causing low pressure or loss of supply across multiple communities. Sports: Soca Warriors face South Korea tonight in a World Cup tune-up, and Tobago’s Ron don Wilkinson won T&T’s first Pan Am junior gold.

Public Order & Protests: Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles says recent arrests tied to the Kaia Sealy demonstrations show Trinidad and Tobago is being pushed toward a “policing state,” and she’s calling for an end to the State of Emergency. Police Oversight: Former Police Commissioner Gary Griffith has challenged Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander over public claims about TTPS debt, demanding named, verifiable facts. Protest Restrictions: The TTPS has enforced 15 no-protest zones, including around key State institutions, after a protest near the DPP’s office. Water Disruption: WASA warns of a temporary shutdown of Caroni Water Treatment Plant next week (June 3, 10pm to June 4, 5am) affecting parts of North, Central and South Trinidad. Transport: Maxi taxi operators plan a nationwide withdrawal of service starting Monday after talks with Government failed to produce written commitments. Crime & Justice: The Counter Trafficking Unit laid 29 charges against two nationals in “Operation Purple Ryain.” Local Economy: UTC reports a $35m net profit for 2025, up $16m from 2024. Culture & Sports: Machel Montano’s documentary “Like Ah Boss” debuts in the U.S.; Anthony Herbert earns an international call-up for friendlies vs South Korea and Russia.

Public Order Clash: Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles says arrests of protesters outside the DPP are pushing Trinidad and Tobago toward a “policing state,” and she’s calling for an end to the State of Emergency. Police Accountability & Protest Rules: The PM backs TTPS after Wednesday’s protest crackdown, while ASP Owie Russell defends police actions as following procedures; TTPS also says Kaia Sealy is not being treated as a fugitive and confirms she’s not designated one. Kaia Sealy Case: Her attorney argues medical delay is justified as she appeals for time to return for court after injuries abroad. Security Policy: TTPS says it’s moving to expand the body camera rollout. Energy & Governance: Paria Fuel chair Nyree Alfonso resigns, and the government says it’s moving through the regular process. International Spotlight: CARICOM weighs in on the US blockade on Cuba, with commentary noting Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana were not on board. Sports & Culture: Rondon Wilkinson wins gold for T&T at the PanAm Youth and Masters Archery; and TT’s Nicholas Paul sweeps six races on the German sprint circuit.

Public Order: TTPS says a legal notice now restricts protests within 500 metres of key government sites, including Parliament, the PM’s Office, police and defence headquarters, and major airports, citing the State of Emergency. Local Heritage & Education: Fyzabad students got a hands-on history trip to the Mud House Museum. Energy & Industry: Touchstone says two Trinidad wells (FR-1835/FR-1836) are now on production, while Atlantic LNG Train 4 begins a planned shutdown and gas flows are being redirected. Disaster Preparedness: TEMA warns Tobago recovery could take years without proper planning and savings, pointing to long-tail impacts from past hurricanes and heavy rainfall. Agriculture & Women: Minister Ravi Ratiram highlights women’s roles across the agri value chain and calls it essential to food security. Governance & Labour Training: Board of Governors appointments made for Cipriani College of Labour and Cooperative Studies. Finance & Business: Butterfield has agreed to acquire CIBC Caribbean Bank in a $1.8bn deal. Regional Sports: West Indies confirm 2026 home Tests vs Sri Lanka and Pakistan (including matches in Trinidad and Tobago) and a New Zealand ODI tour. International Watch: U.S. strikes a suspected drug-smuggling vessel in the eastern Pacific, killing two.