Kamla Persad-Bissessar defends Trinidad and Tobago 2027 Budget

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has defended the 2027 national budget, describing it as “awesome” and designed to support vulnerable citizens while stimulating economic growth. Following the budget presentation by Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo, the Prime Minister highlighted provisions such as a $250 increase in old-age pensions, disability, and public assistance grants.

Persad-Bissessar emphasized the importance of attracting foreign direct investment to generate revenue and create employment. She also stated her intention to redirect state resources toward productive economic activity, vowing to end the practice of taxpayers subsidizing “laziness, fraud and corruption.” She noted that the government aims to rebalance society in favor of law-abiding, hardworking citizens.

The Prime Minister dismissed criticism from former Finance Ministry official Brian Manning, who argued the budget lacked substance and failed to provide a convincing plan for job creation and economic stimulation.