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Trinidad and Tobago’s prime minister says emergency powers could return if serious threats to public safety and national security re-emerge.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has warned that Trinidad and Tobago could be placed under another state of emergency if serious threats to public safety and national security return. Her warning came two days after the latest state of emergency ended at midnight Thursday following several months of emergency measures targeting serious crime and gang activity.
Persad-Bissessar made the statement after the House of Representatives passed the Special Operations Bill, which establishes seven policing districts and provides a framework for special operations against criminal activity. The legislation would also allow specific locations within those districts to be designated as closed areas for limited periods, giving law enforcement enhanced powers. The bill is expected to be considered by the Senate next week.
The prime minister said the recently concluded state of emergency resulted in 3,552 people being charged and argued that the Special Operations Bill would provide another mechanism for addressing threats to national security. She nevertheless said her government would be prepared to use emergency powers again if necessary.
The latest state of emergency was declared on March 3, 2026, after the government cited credible threats against law enforcement officers. It was the second state of emergency declared since the UNC-led government took office in April 2025. The first was declared in July 2025 and ended in January 2026 after two extensions.
Persad-Bissessar also criticized the opposition People’s National Movement and other groups that have raised concerns about the Special Operations Bill. She accused the PNM of siding with criminal interests, while the opposition has criticized aspects of the legislation. Those competing political claims remain matters of dispute between the government and its critics.
Sources: Trinidad Guardian, Trinidad Express and TTT News.