President Paula Mae Weekes has said she is only adhering to the “formal tradition” of inviting an office holder’s legal spouse as guests to state events. 

In a statement, Weekes said there was “misinformation and unreasonable speculation” about her decision. 

She stated invites to ceremonies are issued in the name of the Head of State to a named guest, and the Office of the President (OTP) does not “and guest” invitations.  

The President noted the method of compiling the list was identical in 2018 and 2019, and there are two categories of guests for the ceremony, 

The first is guests of the President, Prime Minister and the awardees. 

“In the issuing of these invitations, marital or other relationships is not a consideration and therefore married, affianced, co-habiting, same sex, even casually dating couples, may be invited in this category,” Weekes said. 

The second group are for people whose offices appear on the order of precedence such as diplomats, judges and parliamentarians. 

She said they are not entitled to bring a guest but OPT extends “the courtesy of having their spouse included on their invitation. This is not a new policy. Information as to marital status of the office holder and the name of the spouse is supplied by the respective offices.” 

On the issue of a high office holder’s partner, Weekes said “legislation dealing with co-habitational relationships does not, nor does it intend to provide a guide to social invitations. It is meant to confer rights to the inherent as to inheritance, property and other legal obligations.”