Trinidad and Tobago is celebrating the 49th anniversary of its transition to a republic, a milestone reflecting the country’s continued journey of self-determination and political independence.
President Christine Kangaloo noted that, at the time of the transition in 1976, there were those who questioned whether the nation was ready to assume the responsibilities of a republic. “Even today, when we experience moments that test our resolve…there are still those who question the wisdom of having taken that step. But I firmly believe that history has shown and will continue to demonstrate that we were right to take such a massive leap of faith,” she said.
Kangaloo highlighted that becoming a republic replaced the British monarch with a head of state chosen from among Trinidad and Tobago’s citizens, affirming the nation’s confidence in its people, institutions, and governance. “It was a reminder that we indeed possessed the mettle and the moxie to truly and fully go it alone,” she added.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar also commemorated the occasion, emphasizing the importance of institutional independence and the need for fairness, accountability, and progress for future generations. “Republicanism is a form of government that is more than just a democracy… it institutes checks and balances on the government, to limit power and protect the constitutional rights of individuals and minorities,” she said.
The People’s National Movement (PNM), the main opposition party, described the anniversary as a moment to celebrate the nation’s self-governance and democratic values. “On September 24th, 1976, our nation took a bold step forward, embracing self-governance and affirming the values of democracy, unity and national pride,” the party said in a statement.
This year, former head of the Tobago House of Assembly (THA), Hochoy Charles, will be posthumously awarded the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (ORTT), the country’s highest honour, among 30 awardees. Due to the current state of emergency, President Kangaloo will host the national awards ceremony at the Winifred Atwell Auditorium, Queen’s Hall, on Wednesday evening, replacing traditional national activities such as the military parade.
