Trinidad & Tobago PM Reaffirms Good Health and Governance Plans

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad & Tobago has publicly reassured citizens that she is in “good health” and fully capable of carrying out her duties as head of government.

Speaking at a post-cabinet news conference, the 73-year-old leader acknowledged concerns over her recent decision to work remotely from her home in Penal. “Let not your hearts be troubled,” she said. “I am fully able and competent to discharge my duties.”

The prime minister thanked those who had expressed concern over her well-being, adding with humor: “Can I just show you I have all ten toes and all ten fingers?” She emphasized that her health remains in “the hands of the Lord,” urging citizens not to fear.

Persad-Bissessar, the first woman to serve twice as prime minister of Trinidad & Tobago, also addressed questions about her working arrangements. She confirmed she would operate from multiple locations – including Port of Spain, central and southern Trinidad & Tobago, and her home – as needed.

She clarified that she does not receive a housing allowance for working remotely.

In response to criticism, the PM noted that the previous administration held 298 virtual cabinet meetings between 2020 and 2025, with an additional 200 meetings held by a cabinet subcommittee during the same period.

She defended her approach as a means to broaden governance beyond the capital: “The country doesn’t begin and end at the lighthouse in Port of Spain. We will not be a government for, of, and by Port of Spain alone.”