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Chief Justice Ivor Archie has announced his intention to retire from his post, bringing an end to an almost 18 year tenure as Trinidad and Tobago’s top judicial officer. The announcement was made today during the Commemoration of the Opening of the 2025-2026 Law Term at the Convocation Hall, Hall of Justice, Port of Spain.

Archie, who turned 65 on August 18, said in his speech: “Chief Justice is what I do; it is not who I am. The Office of CJ is not private property or something you own or cling to. It is held in trust for the nation. I am just a single runner in a never-ending relay and the baton must be passed at some time.” He emphasized that his decision was made in the interest of transparency and seamless succession.

Although the retirement age for judges was raised from 65 to 70 in 2020, Archie stated that he had chosen to retire on his own terms, rather than waiting until age 70. He described his decision as part of a broader approach to leadership succession and governance: “No matter how innovative a leader may be, an infusion of fresh ideas from a new leader is desirable from time to time. I also want to find new challenges and opportunities as I continue to grow.”