Anthony Thomas Aquinas Carmona (born 7 March 1953) is a Trinidadian jurist and politician who served as the fifth President of Trinidad and Tobago. As head of state from 2013 to 2018, he held a largely ceremonial office but one that carries constitutional and symbolic importance in the republic.
Carmona is best known for his legal career. Before entering the presidency, he worked as a lawyer and judge, building experience in both domestic and international law. His professional background gave him a reputation as a public legal figure rather than a career party politician, and his appointment to the presidency reflected that standing.
Presidency
He became president in 2013 and served a full term until 2018. In Trinidad and Tobago’s parliamentary system, the president appoints the prime minister, appoints judges and other officials in accordance with the constitution, and performs ceremonial duties representing the state at home and abroad. Carmona’s term was marked by public emphasis on citizenship, youth, education, and the rule of law.
His honorifics, SC and ORTT, indicate his status as Senior Counsel and recipient of the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, one of the country’s highest honors. These titles reflect both his legal career and national recognition.
Notable points
- Full name: Anthony Thomas Aquinas Carmona
- Office held: President of Trinidad and Tobago, 2013–2018
- Professional background: lawyer and judge
- Public role: constitutional head of state and national representative
Carmona’s career illustrates the close connection between law and public service in Trinidad and Tobago. He is commonly remembered as a president with a strong legal background who brought judicial experience to the country’s highest constitutional office.