International News: CARICOM to seek CCJ advisory opinion on Secretary General reappointment

By Zoila Palma:  Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) have agreed to seek an advisory opinion from the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) regarding the process used in the reappointment of the CARICOM Secretary General, following concerns raised by the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

The decision was announced during the Heads of Government Retreat on July 6 as part of the 51st Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government in Saint Lucia.

According to the statement, Trinidad and Tobago maintained its objection to the reappointment process and requested that the matter be referred to the CCJ.

CARICOM agreed to begin proceedings to obtain an advisory opinion under Article 212 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas, noting that “this is the very purpose for which the CCJ was created – to be a treaty interpretation body.”

The Community also 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.” Leaders added that the agreed approach would allow the issue to be resolved amicably while ensuring the Community can continue conducting its affairs without disruption.

CARICOM Heads reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the regional body’s governance framework through an ongoing review of its governance architecture.

They emphasized that “this process does not impugn the integrity of any Member State or individual; rather it reflects the Community’s collective commitment to continuous institutional improvement with the highest standards of good governance.”

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