Akash Samaroo
Kennedy Swaratsingh believes his recent appointment to the Ministry of Finance is a “clever” move by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar to encourage closer collaboration across key economic ministries.
“We will work, so we do not just focus on the portfolio,” Swaratsingh told Guardian Media. “We focus on a group of activities that will generate business, trade and facilitate economic activity.”
According to the Trinidad and Tobago Gazette dated May 19, 2025, Swaratsingh was appointed a Minister in the Ministry of Finance as of May 13. He continues to hold the position of Minister of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development.
He said the Prime Minister wanted a more collaborative approach to tackling economic issues and diversification.
“The Prime Minister felt that both myself and Minister (Davendranath) Tancoo (Finance Minister) and the Minister of Trade have to work closely together as we seek to reshape the diversification portfolio and general work in the economy,” he explained.
“So, Minister Tancoo, I think the Prime Minister would want him to play a role in my ministry, and that Minister Tancoo, the Minister of Trade and I will form a sort of a team to address the economic direction under the direction of the Prime Minister.”
Speaking to his qualifications, Swaratsingh said, “My doctorate is in Business Administration and I've worked with governments for the last 10 years across the region.”
He added, “And I've worked with international banks, with CAF (Development Bank of Latin America) and other banks as well.”
Swaratsingh previously served as Minister of Public Administration under the Patrick Manning-led PNM administration in 2007.