Chief Secretary Kelvin Charles congratulates newly appointed President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Her Excellency Paula-Mae Weekes, on behalf of the people of Tobago, his family and his own behalf, on her inauguration as the Nation’s sixth president and the first female president of this country.

Mr. Charles says Her Excellency’s appointment represents a laudable achievement for all women, especially as the world recently celebrated International Women’s Day. He also notes that this achievement is significant for Trinidad and Tobago as a developing country, as President Weekes’ appointment makes her the third female President of the Caribbean, after only Guyana and Haiti.

Chief Secretary Charles says, “Today we have much to celebrate. Her Excellency President Weekes’ appointment comes at a time when the women in our country are facing severe challenges. I hope today’s inauguration acts as a reminder to our women that they are built for greatness. I also hope that it encourages our women to continue to press for progress and rise above the wave of fears and limitations that seeks to hinder their blooming.”

Mr. Charles wishes Her Excellency President Paula-Mae Weekes a journey of wisdom and guidance from Almighty God, as she commences her stewardship in this esteemed position.