Browne Joins Regional Leaders as CARICOM Grapples with Secretary General Dispute (photo via ABS)
Prime Minister Gaston Browne is among Caribbean leaders meeting this week to address a range of pressing regional issues, with a dispute over the reappointment of CARICOM Secretary General Dr. Carla Barnett dominating discussions.
The controversy centres on concerns raised by Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica regarding the procedure used to reappoint Barnett to the region’s top administrative post. The issue has emerged as one of the most contentious matters before the Conference of Heads of Government.
In an effort to resolve the disagreement, CARICOM leaders have agreed to begin the process of seeking an advisory opinion from the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ). The legal guidance is expected to clarify the interpretation of the Community’s governing rules on the appointment process.
Pending the outcome of the CCJ’s opinion, Barnett will remain in office and continue carrying out her duties as Secretary General.
The meeting’s agenda extends well beyond the governance dispute. Regional leaders are also holding discussions on the changing global geopolitical landscape, energy security, food security and other issues with significant implications for CARICOM member states.
Browne is leading a four-member delegation from Antigua and Barbuda to the summit. He is accompanied by Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to CARICOM, Dr. Clarence Henry, Senior Foreign Service Officer Kurt Williams, and Project Development Officer in the Office of the National Authorising Officer, Juray Roberts.
The meeting is expected to produce decisions on several regional priorities as CARICOM continues to navigate economic, political and security challenges affecting its member states.
I’ve been following this story but WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE that they are against. Maybe if I know I can know where I stand