Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications in the Prime Minister’s Office, has officially taken over as Cabinet Spokesperson, a role previously held by Chief of Staff Lionel Max Hurst.
Hurst, speaking on Pointe FM, confirmed the transition, citing the need for a younger voice and acknowledging Merchant’s recent performance while he was hospitalised. “Clearly, he has been doing a marvelous job promoting the government,” Hurst said, adding that he is happy to share the responsibility.
In another development, in-person Post-Cabinet Press Briefings will resume from Thursday, 26 June, at the Parliament Building.
The decision to move away from virtual briefings—adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic—comes amid ongoing technical issues. Journalists are expected to be seated by 8:50am for the 9am sessions, which will follow the traditional Thursday schedule unless otherwise announced.