Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago: A government directive requiring non-profit organizations to update their statutory filings has placed thousands of entities at risk of deregistration, including dozens within the Muslim community.
Authorities have indicated that approximately 3,000 non-profit organizations (NPOs) across Trinidad and Tobago are affected by the compliance drive. Of these, an estimated 60 Muslim-run institutions, including mosques, jamaats, and community organisations, have been identified as either noncompliant or at risk of regulatory action.
Within this group, reports suggest that at least 20 mosques, 18 jamaats, and 34 Islamic organizations may face suspension or cancellation of registration. These include core religious bodies, national umbrella organizations, educational and dawah institutions, and community-based groups.
The issue stems primarily from failure to meet statutory filing obligations under Section 21C of the Non-Profit Organisations Act, No. 7 of 2019, specifically the submission of annual returns (Form 6). In addition, some organizations have already been struck off the national register for non-compliance with the Companies Act, Chapter 81:01 of 1995, which requires the filing of annual returns (Form 29).
Officials emphasize that the situation does not involve allegations of misconduct but rather administrative lapses. However, the consequences of non-compliance are significant. Deregistered organizations risk losing legal standing, limiting their ability to operate formally, access funding, or engage in partnerships at the national level.
Community leaders note that the issue highlights longstanding challenges in governance and administrative oversight within parts of the non-profit sector. Delays in documentation, gaps in record-keeping, and unclear assignment of responsibility for compliance have contributed to the current situation.
In response, local organizations such as the The Oral Tradition ROOTS Foundation and the Institute for Qur’anic Reflections and Arts (IQRA) Foundation have announced initiatives to assist affected groups. Their efforts include providing guidance on compliance requirements, helping organizations complete outstanding filings, and coordinating support across Islamic institutions.
Organizations are being urged to act immediately by verifying their registration status with the Registrar General, identifying any outstanding filings, and assigning responsibility for compliance. Support services are also being made available to help entities regularize their status.
The compliance drive underscores the broader importance of governance within the non-profit sector, as authorities continue efforts to ensure transparency and accountability across all registered organizations.
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Check to see if your Organization is Listed for Suspension or Cancellation: Click LINK to access the notification.
