Judiciary scales back law-term opening

THE ceremonial opening of the 2025-2026 law term has been scaled back and will take place at the Hall of Justice in Port of Spain instead of the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA), the Judiciary announced on August 26.

Citing national uncertainties, the Judiciary confirmed the event will be scaled down to a court sitting only on September 16.

Chief Justice Ivor Archie is scheduled to deliver an address at 10 am, which will be broadcast live on television and streamed across the Judiciary’s social media platforms. The full format, including a service of divine worship and parade, will resume at NAPA in 2026.

The decision to scale down the ceremonial opening follows the government’s move to cancel this year’s annual Independence Day parade, fireworks display, and official functions amid the ongoing state of emergency (SoE) and associated security risks.