Former Health Minister Dr Fuad Khan has criticised Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar over the growing attacks on Independent Senators, warning that the controversy could be laying the groundwork for major constitutional changes in Trinidad and Tobago.
In a video commentary, Khan pointed to newspaper coverage surrounding the Independent Senators following their decision to vote against the Special Operations Bill, 2026.
Khan said the coverage appeared to be demonising the senators because they exercised their independence.
“Within today’s papers it was such obvious, laughable, demonizing the independent senators because of their independent decisions,” Khan said.
His comments follow strong criticism of the Independent Bench by Persad-Bissessar after all nine Independent Senators voted against the Special Operations Bill.
The Prime Minister described the senators as “satanic,” “demons” and “scumbags” and accused them of siding with criminals by refusing to support the legislation. She also declared that her Government would no longer accept amendments proposed by Independent Senators.
Khan argued that the sustained criticism could be part of a broader effort to undermine public confidence in the Independent Bench before constitutional reform.
“It’s really only a ploy to justify when they are removed and the constitution is changed,” Khan claimed.
He went further, warning that he believes the country could eventually move towards what he described as a “Chavez type executive presidency in Trinidad and Tobago.”
Khan did not provide evidence that a decision has been made to remove Independent Senators or establish an executive presidency. His comments represent his interpretation of the current political developments.
Independent Senators Anthony Vieira and Dr Marlene Attzs have meanwhile defended the role of the Independent Bench following the Prime Minister’s criticism.
Vieira said scrutiny, disagreement and amendments are fundamental parts of the parliamentary process, while Attzs stressed that the Constitution deliberately created a role for Independent Senators in the legislative process.
The dispute has intensified debate over the independence of the Senate and the future of Trinidad and Tobago’s constitutional arrangements.
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