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  • Onderscheiding voor Bhiesnoe Gopal en Ranu Abhelakh

    Onderscheiding voor Bhiesnoe Gopal en Ranu Abhelakh

    In a significant recognition of cultural preservation and journalistic excellence, the Surinamese-Rotterdam Pin (SuRo-speld) has been conferred upon distinguished journalist Ranu Abhelakh and accomplished entrepreneur Bhiesnoe Gopal. The prestigious awards were presented by Koemar Khargi, President of Satya Dharma Netherlands-Suriname, during a formal ceremony attended by community leaders and cultural advocates.

    Ranu Abhelakh received the honor for her two-decade career as a freelance journalist specializing in Surinamese society and culture. Since 2000, she has masterfully combined writing and photojournalism to explore themes of connection, identity, and development within the Surinamese community. Her work has featured prominently in Hindorama and various international media outlets, presenting authentic perspectives on Suriname’s cultural landscape. Abhelakh has also authored several literary works and biographical projects, including her comprehensive documentation ‘155 Years of Suriname’s Court of Justice,’ which traces the shared legal history between Suriname and the Netherlands.

    Bhiesnoe Gopal was recognized for his entrepreneurial leadership and dedication to social and cultural initiatives through his organization Gopex. His family embodies a remarkable legacy of agricultural excellence and business continuity—his grandfather received a gold medal from Queen Juliana of the Netherlands in 1956 for operating Suriname’s finest agricultural enterprise. As a third-generation steward, Gopal maintains this tradition of craftsmanship and deep connection to Surinamese soil through his family business.

    The nominations were formally put forward by Ramon Ramsodit, former President of Satya Dharma, and advisor Ram Rambartsingh, highlighting both recipients’ exceptional contributions to preserving and promoting Surinamese cultural heritage both locally and internationally.

  • Iran launches retaliation on neighboring states housing US assets following US-Israeli strikes on Tehran

    Iran launches retaliation on neighboring states housing US assets following US-Israeli strikes on Tehran

    The Middle East has plunged into a dangerous escalation of hostilities following Iran’s coordinated military strikes against American installations throughout Gulf Arab nations. This aggressive action represents Tehran’s direct retaliation for a large-scale joint offensive conducted by the United States and Israel against Iranian targets.

    Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for targeting multiple locations across Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates on Saturday. Particularly significant were the strikes on UAE airbases housing U.S. forces. The Fars news agency reported the IRGC’s declaration that all Israeli and American military sites throughout the Middle East were struck by “powerful blows of Iranian missiles.”

    The IRGC issued an uncompromising warning that operations would continue “relentlessly until the enemy is decisively defeated,” explicitly designating all U.S. regional assets as legitimate targets. Iranian officials presented their actions as justified self-defense, with Deputy Foreign Minister Hamid Ghanbari expressing regret over potential civilian casualties while asserting Iran’s right to protect itself.

    Diplomatic channels saw activity as Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi communicated Iran’s position to the United Nations, affirming Tehran’s determination to exercise self-defense “decisively and without hesitation until the aggression ceases fully and unequivocally.”

    The attacks produced varied outcomes across the region. Abu Dhabi reported one fatality from missile strikes, though details remained scarce. Bahrain experienced targeting of the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet headquarters in Manama. Kuwait successfully intercepted ballistic missiles aimed at Ali al-Salem Air Base, though the attack resulted in minor injuries and facility damage. Saudi Arabia repelled strikes targeting Riyadh and eastern regions, while Qatar prevented all missiles from reaching their territory.

    In Iraq’s Kurdish region, Erbil Airport faced two separate drone attacks, both neutralized by air defenses. Southwest of Baghdad, a strike on Kataeb Hezbollah headquarters killed two individuals, prompting the armed group to threaten retaliatory attacks on American bases.

    The regional consequences extended beyond immediate military impacts. Multiple Gulf nations temporarily closed their airspace, while shipping operations received notices about potential closure of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz—a critical passage for global oil exports.

    U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed to Fox News that three American service members died during operations, while claiming significant losses among Iranian leadership. The conflict’s ripple effects reached Israel, where nine fatalities were reported in Beit Shemesh from missile strikes, with civilians remaining on high alert amid ongoing sirens.

    BBC News reported Israeli military actions within Tehran itself, with Iranian officials claiming at least 153 casualties, including children, from a strike on a school facility—further intensifying the humanitarian dimensions of the escalating conflict.

  • Seaglans Community Clean-Up Initiative Spearheaded by the Glanvilles Football Club

    Seaglans Community Clean-Up Initiative Spearheaded by the Glanvilles Football Club

    Residents of Seaglans demonstrated remarkable community spirit during a recent environmental cleanup project that spanned from St. Stephen’s Church to the corner of Seatons. The initiative, organized by community leader Sonia Drew, brought together diverse segments of the population in a collective effort to enhance their local environment.

    The project saw enthusiastic participation from numerous volunteers who dedicated their morning to the cleanup operation. Their commitment to improving community spaces highlighted the growing civic engagement within Seaglans. Local businesses and residents further supported the effort by donating essential refreshments including water, breakfast items, food, drinks, tea, and porridge to sustain the volunteers throughout their efforts.

    Notable participation came from community members, football team representatives, and organizational executives who contributed both physically and through material donations. In a particularly generous gesture, Ms. Britany McDonald from the ESFN Nature’s Rangers Project, though not a resident of Seaglans, made significant donations to support the cause.

    The event also acknowledged anonymous donors whose contributions played a vital role in the project’s success. Organizers expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and indicated plans for future community initiatives, emphasizing the power of collaborative action in fostering community pride and environmental stewardship.

    The cleanup operation concluded successfully, demonstrating how organized community efforts can effectively address local environmental challenges while strengthening social bonds among residents.

  • Barbados concerned over Middle East conflict

    Barbados concerned over Middle East conflict

    The Barbadian government has issued a formal statement expressing profound alarm regarding the recent intensification of military hostilities in the Middle East. This diplomatic communication comes in direct response to coordinated offensive operations conducted by the United States and Israel against Iranian targets on Saturday, which subsequently triggered immediate retaliatory measures from Iran across the region.

    According to emerging battlefield reports, the conflict has resulted in significant casualties, including the tragic demise of high-ranking Iranian military leadership. The Barbados administration emphasized that such military engagements possess severe implications for regional stability, potentially jeopardizing international peace and security frameworks established through decades of diplomatic effort.

    In alignment with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres’ position, Barbados has categorically condemned the dangerous escalation of violence. The Caribbean nation has appealed to all United Nations member states to honor their obligations under established international law and humanitarian conventions. Furthermore, Barbados has coordinated with Gulf Cooperation Council members and other impacted nations in advocating for immediate de-escalation, restraint, and a renewed commitment to peaceful dialogue.

    The official statement contained poignant remarks: ‘We profoundly regret the unnecessary loss of innocent civilian lives in this rapidly evolving conflict. Both the government and citizens of Barbados extend their deepest condolences to affected families and maintain hope for the swift restoration of peace and stability throughout the region.’

    Concurrently, Barbados’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade has issued updated travel advisories, recommending that citizens postpone all non-essential travel to affected zones until security conditions normalize. Barbadian nationals currently residing in the region are advised to exercise extreme vigilance, seek secure shelter, and maintain constant situational awareness.

    The government has implemented emergency protocols requiring all Barbadian citizens in affected areas to immediately register their presence with official authorities. Those requiring consular assistance or emergency evacuation coordination are directed to contact the Barbadian Embassy in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, located at Villa #1, At Tarish Street, Al Mamoura. Contact channels include email: abudhabi@foreign.gov.bb and telephone: +97125572799.

  • Latest on Iran Conflict: Leadership Change, Deadly Strikes, and UN Calls for Halt

    Latest on Iran Conflict: Leadership Change, Deadly Strikes, and UN Calls for Halt

    In the wake of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s death during U.S.-Israeli military operations, Iran has established a transitional governing council to steer the nation through this turbulent period. U.S. President Donald Trump indicated that these new leadership figures appear open to diplomatic engagement, though specific identities remain undisclosed.

    Regional violence continues to intensify with fresh Israeli strikes targeting central Tehran and Iranian retaliatory measures. Tragic incidents include civilian casualties among those seeking refuge near a Jerusalem synagogue and emerging reports of a deadly attack on an Iranian elementary school.

    The conflict has created widespread disruption across Middle Eastern transportation networks, impacted heavily populated urban centers, and constrained oil shipments through critical maritime corridors—fueling concerns about broader regional destabilization.

    During an emergency United Nations Security Council session convened Saturday, Secretary-General António Guterres issued urgent appeals for all parties to cease hostilities and resume diplomatic negotiations. He emphasized that failure to de-escalate could precipitate a expanded conflict with severe humanitarian and regional security implications.

    Guterres condemned aerial operations by both sides for violating international legal standards and national sovereignty, specifically mentioning Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

    U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz defended American actions as legally justified measures to prevent nuclear proliferation, stating: “Iran cannot possess nuclear weapons—this isn’t political but fundamental to global security.” Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon similarly characterized operations as necessary preventive measures against regional threats.

    Iran’s Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani accused Western powers of committing war crimes resulting in hundreds of civilian deaths and criticized the Security Council for previously ignoring Tehran’s warnings. The session witnessed unusually direct confrontations between American and Iranian diplomats, featuring mutual accusations of historical atrocities.

    Other Security Council members expressed deepening concerns. Russia condemned U.S.-Israeli strikes while advocating diplomatic solutions, China voiced alarm over escalating tensions and supported renewed negotiations, and European representatives from Britain, France, and Germany urged revived talks regarding Iran’s nuclear program while emphasizing the Iranian people’s right to self-determination.

  • Afonsoewa: Waarheid over mijn rechtszaak en de misleiding door ex-minister Ramadhin

    Afonsoewa: Waarheid over mijn rechtszaak en de misleiding door ex-minister Ramadhin

    In a striking political confrontation, National Assembly Member Silvana Afonsoewa has publicly challenged former Minister Amar Ramadhin over what she describes as deliberate misrepresentation of facts regarding their ongoing legal battle. Afonsoewa asserts that Ramadhin consistently distorts reality when his ministerial decisions face critical scrutiny.

    The dispute centers around Afonsoewa’s legal case against the Ministry of Health, where both current and former directors attended all court proceedings. The civil service court explicitly ruled that Afonsoewa must be provided with a workplace and compensated for work performed, with parties instructed to establish a timeline for practical implementation – a process that was subsequently expedited.

    Afonsoewa reveals that Ramadhin’s attempted dismissal of her was deemed legally invalid, and even the President had provided written negative advice regarding Ramadhin’s intention. She ultimately resumed her duties with confirmed legal status, working until June 2025.

    The assembly member clarifies that the judgment selectively referenced by Ramadhin pertains only to a preliminary injunction, while her main civil service case remains ongoing without final decision from the High Court. She characterizes Ramadhin’s portrayal as misleading and intended to create false closure.

    Afonsoewa raises pointed questions about selective enforcement, asking why a deputy director who failed to report for work but represented the ministry abroad was maintained, and why parliamentarians from Ramadhin’s party continue receiving civil service salaries without performing duties year after year.

    Emphasizing her integrity, Afonsoewa notes her five-year Assembly service without additional government positions. She announces her attorney will formally request the ministry director who attended all hearings to officially confirm the facts, specifically noting that the referenced judgment is not the one requiring implementation.

  • MISSING: 14-year-old Chamalla Frater

    MISSING: 14-year-old Chamalla Frater

    Authorities in Antigua have launched an urgent search operation for Chamalla Frater, a 14-year-old Jamaican national who vanished from the Grays Farm area on the evening of February 28th. The disappearance has raised significant safety concerns as investigators confirmed the teenager possesses limited familiarity with the local terrain and community.

    With no verified description of her attire at the time of disappearance, the search faces additional challenges. Law enforcement officials are appealing to the public for immediate assistance in locating the vulnerable minor. The case has mobilized community efforts across the island as residents join official search parties.

    Investigators have established a dedicated hotline for information dissemination. Authorities are urging anyone with potential sightings or relevant information regarding Chamalla’s whereabouts to immediately contact emergency services at 775-6877. The investigation remains active with multiple agencies coordinating search efforts across possible locations where the teenager might be found.

  • “How to Make a Commonwealth Quilt” Launch Invites Commonwealth-Wide Participation Ahead of People’s Forum 2026

    “How to Make a Commonwealth Quilt” Launch Invites Commonwealth-Wide Participation Ahead of People’s Forum 2026

    The Commonwealth Foundation has unveiled a groundbreaking participatory project titled “How to Make a Commonwealth Quilt” in partnership with Antigua and Barbuda’s People’s Forum Task Force. The initiative was formally launched on March 3 at the John E. St. Luce Conference Centre, marking a significant preparatory phase for the upcoming Commonwealth People’s Forum 2026.

    This innovative program extends an open invitation to all Commonwealth citizens—regardless of artistic background—to contribute their unique perspectives and experiences. The project metaphorically represents the Commonwealth as a quilt strengthened by diverse individual pieces stitched together, symbolizing unity through diversity.

    Participants are encouraged to submit creative, narrative, or experiential contributions that reflect shared values, cultural identities, and collective aspirations. Key thematic areas include inclusion, sustainability, justice, and social progress, with the goal of ensuring the 2026 Forum genuinely represents people-driven perspectives.

    Samantha Marshall, Lead of the Antigua and Barbuda CHOGM 2026 People’s Forum, emphasized that the initiative captures the Commonwealth’s unique resilience and diversity. “It demonstrates how our varied voices and experiences converge to create something truly meaningful and inclusive,” she stated.

    Clarence Pilgrim, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Chair of the CHOGM 2026 Task Force, highlighted the initiative’s people-centered approach. “This reflects the spirit of partnership that defines our preparations. By inviting contributions from across the Commonwealth, we ensure that community voices, particularly from Antigua and Barbuda, help shape critical conversations,” Pilgrim noted.

    The Commonwealth People’s Forum 2026 will serve as the official civil society platform during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, facilitating dialogue and collaborative solutions to global challenges through inclusive participation.

  • Airfield upgrade project at VC Bird International enters crucial third phase

    Airfield upgrade project at VC Bird International enters crucial third phase

    Antigua’s VC Bird International Airport has advanced into the pivotal third stage of its multimillion-dollar airfield modernization initiative. This latest development marks a significant milestone in the comprehensive effort to align the aviation hub with contemporary global standards.

    The current phase, operational from March through April 15th, will exclusively conduct construction activities during nighttime hours. Work schedules are set from 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM, Monday through Saturday, minimizing disruptions to daily flight operations while maintaining project momentum.

    Technical crews are executing two primary enhancements: complete reconstruction of the asphalt surface on displaced Runway 07 and installation of a new Runway End Safety Area (RESA). The RESA constitutes an essential safety feature designed to mitigate risks associated with aircraft overruns or runway excursions.

    Concurrently, teams are deploying state-of-the-art lighting systems including new approach lights, runway edge lights, and turnpad edge lights. These installations will substantially improve visibility conditions and boost operational efficiency during critical takeoff and landing procedures.

    Airport Operations Manager Rex Daly expressed satisfaction with the project’s trajectory, stating: ‘The progression of work continues to meet our expectations. Upon completion, VC Bird International will possess a thoroughly modernized airfield that reinforces its standing as a Caribbean aviation leader.’

    The airport administration has established dedicated communication channels for project-related inquiries, directing the public to contact the Operations Department at 484-2300.

  • National Bus Company says Routes Remain the Same

    National Bus Company says Routes Remain the Same

    The newly established National Bus Company commenced operations on March 1, 2026, marking a significant milestone in the government’s Transport Modernisation Initiative. Transportation authorities have confirmed that existing bus routes, schedules, and service frequencies will remain predominantly unchanged, with minor adjustments only applied to eliminate duplicate routes and closely timed departures.

    The Ministry of Transportation emphasized that the transition aims to enhance operational reliability and efficiency without disrupting current services. Officials pledged transparent communication regarding any future modifications to the bus network, ensuring passengers receive timely updates about service improvements.

    Despite governmental assurances, the launch has generated substantial skepticism among commuters. Social media platforms have become arenas for public criticism, with many questioning the tangible benefits of the rebranding initiative. One commentator noted, ‘Merely changing the names on buses hardly constitutes improved services,’ while another criticized the persistence of ‘old outdated buses’ within the new system.

    Commuters have specifically challenged whether the organizational restructuring will address fundamental concerns regarding vehicle standards, safety protocols, and punctuality—issues that remain under the management of existing operators. While transportation officials promote the initiative as progress, the traveling public maintains cautious expectations, awaiting evidence of substantive improvements rather than superficial changes.