CARICOM Lawyers Up as Trinidad Takes Secretary-General Dispute to CCJ

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has employed external legal counsel to represent the regional bloc before the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) in response to a legal challenge mounted by Trinidad and Tobago over the reappointment of CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett.

CARICOM Chairman and Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Philip J. Pierre, confirmed the developments during Monday’s Pre Cabinet press briefing, following a meeting in Port-of-Spain with Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar earlier this month.

Prime Minister Pierre described the discussions between the two leaders as “very cordial” and emphasized that the region is moving forward transparently under established legal frameworks. “As you know, the government of Trinidad and Tobago agreed that they wanted an advisory opinion from the Caribbean Court of Justice on the appointment of the secretary-general. So we went to update each other.” Pierre said.

The dispute centers on procedural objections raised by Port-of-Spain regarding the process used to extend Dr. Barnett’s tenure for a second five-year term. In a 22-page submission to regional leaders, Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar argued that Trinidad and Tobago’s position was rooted strictly in constitutional order and compliance with the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas.

Prime Minister Pierre clarified that CARICOM’s internal legal leadership has excused itself from the advisory opinion proceedings to prevent any perceived conflict of interest. “Trinidad and Tobago has prepared its position, and CARICOM will review it through its counsel. And I want to tell you that the secretary-general of CARICOM and the counsel of CARICOM have excused themselves from the process. They’re not involved in the process at all.” Pierre said.

According to Pierre, the independent external counsel hired by CARICOM will be dealing with all relevant documentation and historical precedents concerning secretarial appointments. Once the formal request is processed by the CCJ, member states will have a 42-day window to submit written arguments before the court delivers its ruling.

Despite the ongoing legal disagreement regarding the interpretation of treaty provisions, Prime Minister Pierre expressed confidence in the continued cohesion of the regional bloc and welcomed Trinidad and Tobago’s ongoing engagement.

“The Prime Minister reaffirmed her belief in CARICOM. So I was very pleased that she did that. So we’re looking forward to working together.” Pierre said.

The CCJ’s eventual advisory opinion is expected to provide legal clarity on treaty rules governing executive appointments for CARICOM member states moving forward.

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