Khadijah Ameen, the Minister of Rural Development and Local Government, is currently in Japan on an official visit. Accompanying her is her son, Jeremiah, whose presence has sparked speculation about the financing of the trip. Photos shared on social media by the minister showing the pair together during the visit have raised questions about whether public funds were used for his travel expenses.
The minister is in Japan at the invitation of the Japanese government, which is covering the costs of her travel. In response to these concerns, Ameen addressed the issue directly in a statement to Guardian Media.
She clarified, “The trip is of no cost to the government of T&T. I am here on the invitation of the government of Japan and my expenses are funded by Japan. All of my son’s expenses such as flight, accommodation, meals etc are fully covered privately by myself from personal funds.”
The minister’s assurance seeks to put to rest any questions regarding the use of public funds for this trip.
