PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – Trinidad and Tobago is on Sunday marking its 63rd anniversary of political independence from Britain with the four-month old government of Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar suspending the traditional military parade due to the concerns that led to the country being placed under a state of emergency (SoE).
The government cancelled the 2025 Independence Day military parade and fireworks in favor of a National Day of Prayer and Reflection, citing national security concerns.
The Ministry of Homeland Security said the decision, which also limits fireworks to silent, private use, was made after careful deliberation on intelligence related to the SoE and to ensure the collective well-being of citizens.
In her message to mark the occasion, Prime Minister Persad Bissessar said that the country should celebrate “the courage, vision, and determination of those who fought to give us the right to govern ourselves, to shape our destiny, and to dream of a brighter future for every man, woman, and child of Trinidad and Tobago.
“Independence is not just a historic moment. It is a living promise, a promise of freedom, equality, opportunity, and progress. While we have achieved much in these six decades, we know there is still much more to be done.”
She told the nation that to her independence is truly about “ensuring that the future of our nation is one where every child can grow up in a safer place, where education and opportunities empower them to turn their dreams into reality.
“Your government is committed to addressing the challenges we face. We know the road is not always easy, but I want to assure you that we will not shy away from the hard work ahead.
“I remain dedicated to fixing the problems that affect your daily lives, to creating jobs and opportunities, to supporting families, to protecting the vulnerable, and to ensuring that every citizen has the chance to achieve their fullest potential,” she said, adding that the government needs the support of every Trinidad and Tobago national.
“Whether as teachers, doctors, farmers, entrepreneurs, parents, or students, your contributions are the heartbeat of our nation. Together, with shared responsibility, we can build the safe, strong, and prosperous country we all envision.
“Let us not lose hope. Let us not allow the challenges to divide us. Instead, let us move forward with courage, unity, and faith in ourselves and in each other,” she added.
But Opposition Leader, Penelope Beckles in her message said “Today, I will miss hearing our National Anthem being proudly sung, by thousands in the Grandstand, the Queen’s Park Savannah and along the parade road.
“These gatherings which bring our people together from all corners of our nation, embody the true essence of our diversity while being one Trinidad and Tobago. It underscores that we can always celebrate together as a people. This is ‘We Ting’, our Independence Day celebrations.“
She said this anniversary invites the population to look honestly at the state of the nation, adding “we must acknowledge the challenges we face, such as rising crime, economic uncertainty, mass firing, political victimization, inequities in education, healthcare, and housing, and the attacks on independent institutions”.
Beckles, the first woman to head the main opposition People’s National Movement (PNM), which lost the April 28 general election, said Trinidad and Tobago must also recognize the strength within it to overcome these struggles.
The PNM has organized a series of events to mark the Independence Day and Beckles said “Independence reminds us that our people have always endured adversity and triumphed. The same resilience that carried us through slavery, indentureship, colonialism, and the uncertainty of nationhood will carry us through the trials of today.
“Let us resolve to heal divisions in our society. Let us resolve to serve one another in compassion and fairness. Let us resolve to restore hope, hope that Trinidad and Tobago will fulfil its destiny as a nation of peace, equality, creativity, and opportunity,” she added.
