Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said Monday that opposition figures across the Caribbean are being sidelined within regional structures, arguing that the Caribbean Community must represent all citizens — not just governing parties.

Speaking during the opening ceremony of the 50th Regular Meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government, Persad-Bissessar drew on her own experience as a former opposition leader, saying she once wrote to the CARICOM Secretariat in 2022 seeking answers about the treatment of a Trinidad and Tobago citizen in another member state and never received a response.

She questioned whether someone “ceases to be recognized by the Secretariat as a member citizen of CARICOM when not in government,” suggesting that political status should not determine whether concerns are acknowledged.

“CARICOM should be the voice for all,” she said, “not just for the governing parties.”

Persad-Bissessar reminded leaders that political fortunes change, noting that all current heads of government will at some point find themselves in opposition.

She argued that the regional body must not be used to “benefit or protect political parties and friends affiliated with the incumbent government,” warning that such perceptions undermine trust and unity within the 15-member bloc.

Her remarks added a pointed political dimension to the summit’s theme, “Beyond Words: Action Today for a Thriving Sustainable CARICOM,” as leaders prepare for closed-door discussions on regional security, economic resilience and geopolitical tensions.

The meeting continues through Thursday in St. Kitts and Nevis.