Kamla Persad-Bissessar Demands CARICOM Exit for Barnett Over “Odious” Vote
Trinidad and Tobago’s prime minister is escalating a regional clash, openly challenging Caribbean leadership over a disputed appointment that could reshape alliances.
Kamla Persad-Bissessar is demanding accountability from CARICOM after rejecting the reappointment of Secretary-General Carla Barnett, raising questions about how the decision was made and whether rules were followed.
According to the Jamaica Observer, Persad-Bissessar called the process “surreptitious and odious” and formally requested documentation on how the decision was approved.
Barnett’s second term, due to begin in August 2026, was backed by a majority of CARICOM leaders, though Trinidad argues the move may not comply with established procedures under the regional treaty.
The dispute is widening because Trinidad contributes about 22% of CARICOM’s funding and has signaled it could withhold financial support while pressing its objections.
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“This matter must be transparently resolved,” Persad-Bissessar said in a public statement.
The standoff adds pressure to an already fragile regional relationship, especially as Persad-Bissessar has taken positions aligned with U.S. policies that other Caribbean leaders have criticized, deepening divisions.
Opposition leaders warn the confrontation could damage trade and cooperation across the Caribbean, where CARICOM remains a key economic and political bloc.
CARICOM has not publicly reversed its decision, leaving the dispute unresolved as Barnett’s new term approaches.
The next move will likely determine whether the conflict turns into a broader regional split.
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