Our national security apparatus faced serious challenges under the last administration. There was never a dull moment—rising crime was accompanied by a dramatic and public standoff between a former prime minister and a former commissioner of police. This was followed by the arrest of yet another former CoP. Allegations surfaced of a “Christian grab for power” and “hit squads” operating within the Strategic Services Agency (SSA), leading to the removal of its director and several officials. SORT was disbanded and its top officers were suspended.
All of this unfolded while citizens were being slaughtered in their homes and on the streets, and criminals appeared to have free rein. The implosion of leadership and dysfunction at the highest levels made it clear to many voters that national reset was needed. People voted for new leadership—individuals who could not only deliver results but give them a sense of security and hope.
Enter Roger Alexander, our new Minister of Homeland Security. Known from the TV programme Beyond the Tape, Alexander brought his unique brand of street-level honesty, visibility and lived experience into the political arena.
On May 31, Simon Wright wrote: “Alexander is not just a former police officer or TV personality; he is a symbol of tough talk, community awareness, and a street-level understanding of the issues that matter. He speaks in the language of the people—direct, passionate, and unfiltered. In a time when voters are increasingly tired of polished career politicians and empty rhetoric, his authenticity may be his greatest asset.”
Yet, not everyone welcomed him. I was disappointed when MP Marvin Gonzales publicly called Alexander a “dunce,” criticising his maiden speech and suggesting his reading skills were an embarrassment to the legacy of Dr Eric Williams. He even implied that PNM’s investment in education had failed by producing someone like Alexander.
But perhaps Gonzales couldn’t help himself—his political icon, Dr Williams, was no stranger to harsh language. He once labelled the T&T Guardian newspaper “the jamette of St Vincent Street,” called his MPs “crapauds,” referred to Dr. Hollis Liverpool as “a jackass,” and famously told citizens outraged by his Home Affairs Minister who walked into a police station and freed a relative, “to get the hell out of here.”
Gonzales, who some say has leadership potential, would do well to emulate someone like Opposition Leader Penelope Beckles, who has consistently conducted herself with dignity and grace. As Paramahansa Yogananda once said, “Some people try to be tall by cutting off the heads of others.”
Minister Alexander, in turn, used the opportunity to uplift others, encouraging the nation’s youth not to be discouraged if they are mocked while learning something new.
Another major figure in this national reset is Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro. While we made history by appointing our first female CoP, Erla Harewood-Christopher, her appointment puzzled many. Nominated just three months before retirement and twice granted extensions, this led persons to claim she was beholden to the then-administration.
Thankfully, this time the process was cleaner. The Police Service Commission (PolSC) provided its list of candidates without controversy or political meddling (no secret meeting). The Government accepted their recommendation, fulfilling a campaign promise to appoint a substantive CoP. Guevarro, at 49, is set to serve an 11-year term.
Among his early challenges is the investigation into DCP Suzette Martin, prompted by a complaint from firearms dealer Brent Thomas, who was extracted from Barbados by our police. A High Court judge supported Thomas’ claim. Former CoP Gary Griffith stated that no police officer could leave T&T without authorisation from the Minister of National Security. He dismissed Martin as “a small fish in the dance,” and demanded more answers.
Public trust in the police must be restored. Citizens need to believe the service operates without political influence. It’s worth noting that Martin also played a key role in the arrest of then-CoP Harewood-Christopher—a case that later collapsed due to lack of evidence.
Commissioner Guevarro emphasised the need for transparency and accountability. He confirmed that the findings of the Martin investigation will be sent to the PolSC, which under Section 123 of the Constitution holds the sole authority to act if necessary. He also highlighted the importance of effective policing strategies and parenting in addressing crime.
“It is time that the Police Service and the officers who are members of this auspicious and esteemed body returned to being role models of society… It is about time we return to being superheroes,” he said.
As a young boy on school career day, Guevarro declared he wanted to be CoP. He’s achieved that dream. Now, we hope he helps our citizens realise theirs: a safer T&T.