Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar delivered a pointed rebuke to fellow Caribbean leaders Monday, warning that political interference in each other’s elections must stop if the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is to maintain unity and credibility.
Speaking at the opening of the 50th Regular Meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government, Persad-Bissessar said it was unacceptable for political figures from one member state to enter another to campaign during elections.
“If we are to help each other and cooperate, it cannot be that last week you sent your political persons — not technocrats — down to campaign,” she said, adding that no leader would want outside political actors interfering in their domestic affairs.
She warned that such actions fuel “unneeded factional divisions and private conflicts between regional leaders and political parties,” and undermine regional integration.
Persad-Bissessar stressed that CARICOM must remain neutral and not be used to advance partisan interests. She said the organization “should not be misused by anyone to benefit or protect political parties and friends affiliated with the incumbent government.”
In a broader appeal, she reminded leaders that political fortunes shift.
“All of us here… will all be in opposition once,” she said, urging respect for citizens regardless of party affiliation.
She also revisited a 2022 incident involving the removal of a Trinidad and Tobago citizen from another CARICOM state, saying she had written to the Secretariat seeking clarification but had not received a response.
Persad-Bissessar said CARICOM must be “the voice for all,” not only governing parties, and called for a reset in how regional solidarity is practiced.
Her remarks introduced a rare moment of tension at what was otherwise a ceremonial opening, underscoring deeper political sensitivities within the 15-member bloc.
The summit continues through Thursday, with leaders scheduled to address regional security, climate resilience, economic integration and foreign policy coordination.