Pre-election woes are rising in Trinidad and Tobago

Subject

Fall-out from the recent scandals affecting the cabinet.

Significance

Just months before a general election is due, the government of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar is in turmoil owing to a scandal involving former attorney-general Anand Ramlogan and ex-minister of national security Gary Griffith, both implicated in witness tampering allegations. The prime minister removed both men from office, and then undertook a wider cabinet reshuffle.

Impacts

• The government may yet recover, with more than six months until general elections must be held.
• However, public spending cuts are likely to undermine recovery and the government's approval.
• Police investigations could reveal new information that damages the government's credibility further.