Gallows Relocation Reignites Death Penalty Debate

In a recent announcement, government ministers of Trinidad and Tobago confirmed the relocation of the gallows from the Port of Spain Prison to a modern facility as part of the phased decommissioning process. The intention behind this move is to maintain readiness for executions under Trinidad and Tobago law, as the death penalty is still a mandatory sentence for murder. Although no law has been passed for its abolition despite international calls, the last execution took place in 1999. The relocation is a matter of infrastructure continuity rather than a new policy. The government emphasizes that it is prepared to reassert capital punishment as an option, aligning with a wider tough-on-crime posture. However, for hangings to resume, all appeals must be exhausted within a 5-year window set by the Privy Council. The move raises questions regarding transparency, rights safeguards, public consultation, and international reaction.