By Alicia Chamely

FORMER Commissioner of Police Gary Griffith is not included on the merit list for the selection of the new Commissioner of Police (CoP).

In a release sent on Monday, Griffith wished to clarify to his supporters that, due to his involvement in the 2024 local election and 2025 general election as Political Leader of the National Transformation Alliance (NTA), he did not apply for the position of Commissioner.

Griffith stated, “I did not apply for the position of Commissioner of Police during the most recent recruitment process initiated by the Police Service Commission. At the time, I was actively involved in the Local Government Election campaign, followed closely by the General Election, and my commitments to political service made it impractical for me to apply.”

Adding, “As a result, I am not included on the merit list of candidates currently being considered. I trust that the selection process was followed, that candidates have been interviewed, and that the Police Service Commission has submitted its shortlist.”

Griffith acknowledged Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s praise of his work during his tenure as CoP and the support of public calling for him to return to the position.

He pledged to remain available to the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) and whomever selected to lead it CoP, saying, “I will continue to make myself available to assist all arms of the state in any way that promotes peace, justice, and national progress. And as always, I remain ready to serve my country.”

Griffith called on the public to support whoever was chosen as the new CoP.

Griffith served as CoP between August 18  2018 to August 17 2021 under the former People’s National Movement (PNM) government.

He was replaced by Erla Harewood-Christopher, who was accused of misconduct and placed on suspension in January 2025. Accusations against her were dropped and she was reinstated on May 14, upon which date she was ordered to go on leave. PC Junior Benjamin currently serves as Acting CoP.