THE Government has asked for Independence Day on August 31 to be celebrated as a Day of Prayer and Reflection, rather than by a military parade or a public fireworks display, said a statement on August 15 by the Ministry of Homeland Security. The statement cited security concerns amid the ongoing state of emergency (SoE) called on July 18 due to an alleged amalgamation of criminal gangs drawing up a hit list of public officials, with the SoE later extended for three months. For private displays, only silent fireworks will be allowed, the statement said.

At a later briefing, Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander alluded to a security rationale for the firework ban on top of his main concern about noise pollution harming animals and people.

The statement said, "The National Day of Prayer and Reflection will bring together citizens of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, of all faiths and backgrounds, to unite and to seek guidance and strength during this challenging time, as well as to reflect on where we are as a nation and the way forward." It noted precedents for not holding the parade in 2020 and 2021 due to covid19.