Former CEPEP chairman Joel Edwards said there was nothing untoward about the signing of contracts prior to the elections. He said review and renewal of contracts began in February of 2025, before elections were announced.

On June 5 at the post-Cabinet media briefing at the Red House, Port of Spain, Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath alleged 350 CEPEP contracts were signed mere days before the April 28 general election. Padarath said contractors were taking home $40,000-$50,000 monthly.

Edwards, who resigned as CEPEP chairman on May 5, spoke to Newsday on June 6. He said the process of contract review and renewal began a few months ago.