Left: Stuart R. Young, 50, was on March 17, 2025, sworn in as the new Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago. Photo: Gov't of Trinidad & Tobago

Persons rush to the assistance of former Prime Minister of Grenada Dr Keith C. Mitchell, who momentarily collapsed while addressing the opposition party’s self-proclaimed People’s Parliament at the Happy Hill Secondary School on Monday night, March 17, 2025. Photo: Facebook

The new Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago Mr Stuart R. Young has said he will lead this country with integrity, inclusion and accountability. Photo: Gov't of T&T

Mr Young took the oath at President’s House, St Ann’s, becoming the twin-island republic’s eighth prime minister.

The new Prime Minister said he will lead this country with integrity, inclusion and accountability.

Outgoing prime minister Dr Keith C. Rowley and his wife Sharon Rowley were among the audience.

Rowley was the first sitting Trinidad and Tobago prime minister to voluntarily step down before a general election.

Dissolves parliament & sets election date

In a surprise announcement, Prime Minister Young has advised Her Excellency Christine Kangaloo, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, to dissolve Parliament with effect from midnight on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, in accordance with Section 68 of the Constitution.

Dr Keith C. Mitchell faints

In other Regional News…Former Prime Minister of Grenada Dr Keith C. Mitchell momentarily collapsed while addressing the opposition party’s self-proclaimed People’s Parliament at the Happy Hill Secondary School on Monday night, March 17, 2025.

During his speech, which was being broadcast live, Dr Mitchell appeared to lose consciousness, telling the audience, “Sisters and brothers, I am blacking out,” before immediately slumping onto the podium. The live feed was subsequently cut immediately as individuals rushed to assist him.

Eyewitnesses at the venue later confirmed that Dr Mitchell regained full consciousness shortly afterward.

 'Vasovagal episode'

Meanwhile, Leader of the Opposition, Emmalin Pierre, attributed the incident to an emotional reaction while discussing the recent passing of a close friend, and went on to explain that Dr Mitchell discontinued his address and left the venue “in good spirits.”

A medical professional reviewing the footage suggested that Dr Mitchell may have experienced a vasovagal episode, a common cause of fainting triggered by emotional distress.

In response to the incident, Prime Minister Dickon A.T. Mitchell and Independent MP Peter David, have since publicly extended their well wishes and encouraged the nation to keep their parliamentary colleague in their thoughts.