CARICOM Heads of Government agree to seek an advisory opinion from the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) to resolve a dispute over the reappointment process for CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett. The move follows an objection from Trinidad and Tobago to the process used to extend Barnett’s tenure for a further five-year term.
In a statement issued after the CARICOM Heads of Government Retreat held on 6 July, CARICOM says it is initiating proceedings before the CCJ to request an interpretation of the relevant treaty provisions governing the reappointment process. The CCJ is described as having authority to provide treaty interpretation, which is the basis for asking the court for guidance.
Caricom also states that, pending the CCJ’s advisory opinion and CARICOM’s consideration of it, the current arrangements for Barnett’s reappointment remain in effect.
Alongside the legal referral, CARICOM reiterates that it is also proceeding with a review of its governance architecture as part of a wider mandate approved by heads of government previously, framing it as an effort to strengthen institutions and governance standards.
