Dr. Carla Barnett's term as CARICOM Secretary General is up for renewal next month, and she has the support of most of the heads of government. But certainly not all.
And today the Heads took a decision to send the matter to the CCJ.
A statement notes, "During the Retreat of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community held on 06 July 2026, the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago maintained its objection to the process used in the reappointment of the Secretary General of the Caribbean Community.
CARICOM acknowledged that the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago desires to have the issue of the reappointment of the SG referred to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) to render an Advisory Opinion… To facilitate this request, the Community agrees to commence proceedings to secure such advisory opinion…The Community further agreed that the status quo with respect to the re-appointment of the Secretary General shall remain unless and until the Community considers the said Advisory Opinion from the CCJ.
The Community agreed that this way forward allows for this matter to be resolved in an amicable manner, without prejudice to the ability of the Community to conduct its affairs." End quote.
So, Barnett stays on and, we are told, continues to enjoy the support of the majority of the heads of government.
