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  • Governor General and Lady Williams participate in major events at the United Nations

    Governor General and Lady Williams participate in major events at the United Nations

    Canada’s Governor General Mary Simon and her partner Whit Fraser have concluded a significant diplomatic mission to New York, where they represented the nation at high-level United Nations proceedings. The visit underscored Canada’s renewed commitment to multilateral engagement on pressing global challenges.

    Their participation centered around two pivotal events: the Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4) and the UN Security Council’s annual debate on Women, Peace and Security. At SIDS4, the Governor General emphasized Canada’s partnership with island nations facing existential threats from climate change, announcing new support programs for climate resilience and sustainable development.

    During the Security Council session, Her Excellency delivered a powerful address advocating for the full integration of gender perspectives in conflict resolution and peacebuilding operations. She highlighted Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy and shared successful case studies of women-led peace initiatives in conflict zones where Canada provides support.

    The diplomatic engagement included bilateral meetings with leaders from Pacific and Caribbean nations, alongside discussions with UN Secretary-General António Guterres. These talks focused on strengthening international cooperation mechanisms and reforming global governance institutions to better address contemporary security and environmental crises.

    This representation at the highest level of the UN system signals Canada’s strategic priority to re-engage with multilateral forums after periods of diplomatic recalibration. The Governor General’s office stated these efforts align with Canada’s 2023-2027 foreign policy framework emphasizing climate diplomacy, gender equality, and reinforced support for vulnerable states within the international community.

  • Holiday Declared in Barbados After Election Marked by Low Turnout

    Holiday Declared in Barbados After Election Marked by Low Turnout

    Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley has proclaimed Friday, February 13th, 2026, as a national holiday following her party’s unprecedented electoral triumph. The Barbados Labour Party (BLP) achieved a historic third consecutive clean sweep, capturing all 30 parliamentary seats in the February 11th general election.

    Prime Minister Mottley comfortably retained her St. Michael North East constituency, while Democratic Labour Party leader Ralph Thorne suffered defeat in St. John at the hands of BLP candidate Charles Griffith. The electoral contest featured six political parties and multiple independent candidates, yet none managed to disrupt the BLP’s overwhelming dominance. Mottley is scheduled to be formally sworn into office on Monday to commence her new term.

    Preliminary data reveals a strikingly low voter participation rate of approximately 40%, representing a dramatic decline from the 69% turnout recorded during Mottley’s previous electoral victory. This participation level indicates that a majority of registered Barbadian voters abstained from participating in the democratic process, significantly reducing direct public involvement in determining the nation’s leadership.

    When contrasted with regional democratic exercises, Belize’s most recent general election demonstrated substantially higher civic engagement with 64% voter participation during the People’s United Party’s victory.

  • GY$2 billion for possible rebuilding of Stabroek Market, Bourda Green

    GY$2 billion for possible rebuilding of Stabroek Market, Bourda Green

    The Guyanese government has unveiled ambitious plans to revitalize the capital city’s historic landmarks through a massive GY$2 billion (US$9.6 million) urban renewal initiative. Local Government Minister Priya Manickchand announced to the National Assembly’s Committee of Supply on Thursday that the comprehensive facelift will potentially include either restoration or complete reconstruction of Stabroek Market—the largest public market in the English-speaking Caribbean—along with enhancements to Bourda Green.

    Minister Manickchand emphasized the cultural significance of Stabroek Market, describing it as “iconic to Georgetown and to Guyana,” while clarifying that the project involves careful consideration rather than simple demolition. “It’s not just a pull down and build project,” she stated during budget deliberations for the GY$1.558 trillion national budget for 2026.

    The market modernization initiative comes as the government continues roof repairs through a GY$107.7 million contract awarded in October 2025, with 60% of those repairs already completed. An additional GY$74 million has been allocated to complete remaining repairs before major renovation works commence.

    The minister outlined new quality standards for public markets, emphasizing the need for improved sanitation facilities, enhanced weather protection, and better organized vending spaces to meet modern commercial requirements.

    Beyond the market project, the urban renewal program includes GY$30 million for rehabilitating the former residence of late national poet Martin Carter on Lamaha Street, Queenstown, following consultations with the property owner. Additional funds have been designated for designing and constructing green spaces in several Ruimveldt areas of southern Georgetown, signaling a comprehensive approach to urban beautification and functional public infrastructure development.

  • Harbour Cannabis Case Delayed as File Awaits DPP Review

    Harbour Cannabis Case Delayed as File Awaits DPP Review

    A significant judicial proceeding involving substantial narcotics importation allegations faced postponement this Wednesday as prosecutorial authorities continue their comprehensive case assessment. The matter centers on defendants Nadeem Brandon Doumith from Crosbies and Francis Young of Hodges Bay, who stand jointly accused of multiple drug-related offenses stemming from a major interdiction operation on May 9, 2025, at Deep Water Harbour.

    The defendants confront serious charges encompassing conspiracy to traffic controlled substances, unlawful importation, possession with intent to supply, and active participation in distribution networks. Law enforcement officials reportedly uncovered a substantial cannabis cache concealed within a shipping container at the port’s cargo facility. The discovery included 62 individually vacuum-sealed packages containing a total of 62 pounds of cannabis, with authorities estimating its potential street value at approximately $372,000.

    Legal representation for the accused includes attorney Wendel Alexander for Doumith, while Young retains counsel Okola. Alexander appeared on behalf of both defendants during the recent hearing. Chief Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel presided over the session, where the court learned that the case file remains under meticulous examination by the specialized vetting unit. Subsequent to this phase, the documentation must undergo formal review by the Director of Public Prosecutions for final determination regarding proceeding with formal charges.

    The judicial process has been formally adjourned until April 1, allowing sufficient time for the comprehensive prosecutorial review process to reach completion before the case advances through the legal system.

  • IOM calls for increased global action to combat child trafficking

    IOM calls for increased global action to combat child trafficking

    MARRAKESH – At the Sixth Global Conference on the Elimination of Child Labour, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) issued an urgent appeal for governments to address the critical intersection of child labor, migration, and human trafficking in their protection strategies. The conference, co-hosted by Morocco and the International Labour Organization from February 11-13, brought together government representatives, UN agencies, private sector leaders, and civil society organizations to accelerate global efforts against child exploitation.

    Recent IOM data reveals a disturbing reality: approximately 25% of all detected trafficking victims worldwide are children, totaling nearly 30,000 identified cases. However, experts caution that these figures represent merely the visible tip of the iceberg due to widespread underreporting and detection challenges. The actual number of children affected by trafficking is believed to be substantially higher.

    IOM Director General Amy Pope emphasized in a video address that ‘millions of children on the move face heightened risks of exploitation and trafficking, yet they remain too often invisible in global policies and protection systems.’ She called for immediate cross-border and cross-sectoral action to address these alarming protection gaps.

    Throughout the conference, IOM highlighted the essential role of robust data collection and research in identifying risks, shaping preventive measures, and implementing targeted interventions. A collaborative analysis between IOM and Harvard University, examining two decades of child trafficking data, demonstrated the complex interconnections between child labor, migration patterns, and trafficking networks. These findings advocate for greater integration of child protection frameworks with migration management and anti-trafficking mechanisms.

    In the ‘Alliance 8.7: 10 Years of Partnership and Action’ session, IOM underscored the necessity of coordinated, rights-based approaches. As chair of the Migration Action Group, the organization stressed that effective partnerships are crucial for bridging existing response gaps and assisting nations in developing comprehensive, integrated strategies.

    IOM showcased progress through its collaboration with Save the Children and UNICEF via the Global Programme on Protection for Migrant Children. This initiative, particularly active in East Africa, the Horn of Africa, and North Africa, is enhancing cross-border case management and referral systems to reduce risks faced by children during migration.

    The organization also introduced WakaWell, an innovative youth-led platform designed to empower young Africans with information for making safe and informed migration decisions. IOM’s participation was facilitated through the COMPASS program, a multi-regional effort focused on strengthening migration governance while protecting migrants’ rights.

    Looking ahead, IOM reaffirmed its commitment to working with governments, UN entities, civil society, and youth networks to ensure that children on the move are included in all efforts to eliminate child labor. The organization called for sustained investment in partnerships that support protective policies and programs, along with the development of more comprehensive global indicators that accurately reflect migration and trafficking realities, especially in preparation for the upcoming International Migration Review Forum.

  • Police release clearer video on alleged forex trading at Mohamed’s Lombard Street building but Azruddin continues denial

    Police release clearer video on alleged forex trading at Mohamed’s Lombard Street building but Azruddin continues denial

    The Guyana Police Force has escalated its investigation into alleged illegal foreign exchange operations by releasing enhanced surveillance footage from Mohamed’s Enterprises’ Lombard Street premises. The newly unveiled video, timestamped January 11, 2026, depicts individuals engaging in transactions at a cashier cage where U.S. dollars appear to be exchanged for Guyanese currency, with audible references to specific amounts during the process.

    Despite this visual evidence, prominent businessman and opposition leader Azruddin Mohamed persists in denying any illicit currency trading activities at the location. When confronted with the police evidence, Mohamed reaffirmed his previous statements, asserting that his legal team would address the matter through judicial channels. Law enforcement authorities are expected to determine whether to pursue criminal charges by Friday.

    The investigation intensified on Wednesday when the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) conducted a comprehensive search operation, resulting in the temporary detention of eight individuals and the seizure of multiple document containers. SOCU officials confirmed discovering evidence suggestive of unauthorized financial operations, with all confiscated materials undergoing rigorous forensic and financial analysis.

    This enforcement action follows the revocation of Mohamed’s Enterprises’ foreign exchange license, which occurred shortly after the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control imposed sanctions on Azruddin Mohamed and his father Nazar “Shell” Mohamed. The sanctions stem from allegations of gold smuggling and tax evasion practices that allegedly deprived the Guyanese government of substantial revenue. Subsequently, a U.S. Grand Jury indicted both individuals in October 2025 on charges including wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering, with American authorities currently seeking their extradition to face trial in Florida.

    The Mohamed family contends that these legal actions constitute political persecution motivated by their opposition to the ruling People’s Progressive Party. Azruddin Mohamed additionally claimed that approximately GY$2 million seized during the recent operation was designated for charitable distributions to disadvantaged communities.

  • PM Skerrit congratulates Barbados PM Mottley on third consecutive victory

    PM Skerrit congratulates Barbados PM Mottley on third consecutive victory

    Caribbean leaders are extending warm congratulations to Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley following her party’s unprecedented electoral triumph in Barbados. The Barbados Labour Party (BLP) achieved a remarkable political milestone by securing every seat in the House of Assembly for the third consecutive election cycle, cementing Mottley’s position as one of the region’s most dominant political figures.

    Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit led the chorus of regional acclaim, praising the decisive mandate delivered by Barbadian voters. In a formal statement shared via social media, Skerrit emphasized the significance of Mottley’s leadership during challenging times, noting that the victory represents “the people of Barbados once again placing their trust in your leadership and your ability to guide the country forward during a time that calls for steady hands and bold thinking.”

    The Dominican leader highlighted the special relationship between the two nations, stating, “Here in Dominica, we value the strong friendship between our two nations, and I look forward to continuing our work to strengthen our region.” Skerrit expressed confidence in Mottley’s continued leadership as she prepares to embark on her new term.

    The victory has drawn attention across the Caribbean community, with multiple heads of government joining in celebration. Notable figures offering congratulations include Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali, Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness, Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne, St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday, St. Kitts and Nevis’ Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, and St. Lucia’s Prime Minister Phillip J. Pierre.

    This overwhelming regional response underscores Mottley’s influential role in Caribbean politics and the solidarity among CARICOM nations. The election results demonstrate exceptional public confidence in Mottley’s administration amid global economic challenges and regional development initiatives.

  • Running Water for Two Villages in Toledo

    Running Water for Two Villages in Toledo

    In a significant advancement for rural infrastructure, the Belizean Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development and Local Government, in collaboration with UNICEF, has inaugurated two major water supply projects in the Toledo District. These initiatives mark a transformative step in ensuring sustainable access to clean water for remote communities.

    The first project, unveiled Wednesday morning in San Jose Village, features a comprehensively upgraded water system engineered for long-term durability. The installation incorporates solar panel technology alongside a backup generator, creating a hybrid power solution that guarantees uninterrupted water service regardless of weather conditions or grid instability.

    A second inauguration ceremony held later that day in Yemeri Grove celebrated the activation of an entirely new water system. This development resolves a longstanding challenge where residents previously depended on a shared water supply with neighboring Laguna Village, often resulting in inadequate water access for both communities. The new infrastructure comprises a dedicated production well, an elevated reservoir, and a submersible pump, all integrated into a distribution network connected to Belize Electricity Limited’s power grid. This system now reliably serves 121 households in Yemeri Grove.

    The ceremonial events were attended by key stakeholders including Oscar Requena, Minister for Rural Transformation; Dr. Olusola Oladeji, Health and Nutrition Specialist at UNICEF; Valentino Shal, Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry; alongside local village leadership and community members who will directly benefit from these critical infrastructure improvements.

  • Atompai eist volledige openheid over salarissen rechterlijke macht

    Atompai eist volledige openheid over salarissen rechterlijke macht

    In a striking parliamentary session, National Assembly member Poetini Atompai (NPS) launched a rigorous interrogation into the compensation structure within Suriname’s judiciary, demanding immediate government transparency regarding its financial implications for the national treasury. The parliamentarian revealed concerning indications that certain judicial officials receive remuneration packages three to five times higher than the presidential salary, raising fundamental questions about proportionality, reasonableness, and governmental accountability.

    Addressing Justice and Police Minister Harish Monorath directly, Atompai insisted on receiving comprehensive answers by the day’s end. His inquiry specifically demanded a complete breakdown of gross salaries for all judicial branch personnel, categorized by position and rank. The request further extends to detailed information about implementation timelines, total monthly state expenditures, and cumulative financial impact since these compensation structures took effect.

    Beyond current figures, the parliamentarian seeks historical context—requesting pre-increase salary baselines, exact percentage increases, and the specific criteria governing these determinations. Atompai’s scrutiny extends to court clerks and their compensation relativity within the judicial hierarchy, emphasizing the need for complete structural transparency.

    In a significant expansion of his inquiry, the NPS representative highlighted concerning compensation disparities affecting National Assembly staff themselves. Despite their crucial role in parliamentary operations, Atompai asserted these employees receive inadequate compensation. He demanded detailed insights into their current salary scales by position and information about measures being implemented to achieve market-conform remuneration.

    Though time constraints prevented oral delivery of all inquiries, Atompai formally submitted his complete questions to Assembly Chairman Ashwin Adhin through official parliamentary channels, ensuring they enter the legislative record for mandatory government response.

  • Rusland verbiedt WhatsApp en stimuleert staatsalternatief

    Rusland verbiedt WhatsApp en stimuleert staatsalternatief

    In a significant escalation of digital control measures, Russian authorities have implemented a nationwide blockade of Meta’s WhatsApp messaging platform, citing alleged non-compliance with local legislation. The move represents the Kremlin’s latest effort to tighten its grip on digital communications amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

    Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov formally announced the restriction, stating WhatsApp had demonstrated ‘unwillingness to adhere to Russian standards and laws.’ Russian citizens are being actively encouraged to transition to MAX, a government-backed communication application that integrates messaging capabilities with state services and payment functions.

    Digital rights experts have raised immediate concerns about MAX’s security architecture, noting the platform lacks end-to-end encryption—a fundamental privacy feature that protects message content from third-party access. This technical deficiency potentially exposes users to comprehensive state surveillance and interference.

    This development follows Russia’s systematic restriction of foreign communication platforms since last year, when authorities began limiting functionality on WhatsApp and Telegram under the pretext of insufficient cooperation with fraud and terrorism investigations. Human rights organizations including Amnesty International have condemned these measures as blatant digital repression disguised as citizen protection.

    WhatsApp responded to the blockade by pledging to ‘do everything possible’ to maintain connections for Russian users. Company representatives characterized isolating over 100 million Russians from secure communication as a ‘regressive step’ that compromises citizen safety. Many Russians have reportedly relied on virtual private networks (VPNs) since December to maintain WhatsApp access.

    Russia’s digital isolation strategy extends beyond WhatsApp, encompassing previous blocks on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, alongside restrictions on YouTube and Apple’s FaceTime. This pattern reflects a broader global trend where governments are increasingly asserting control over digital communication channels.

    Comparative analysis reveals similar approaches in multiple nations: China maintains long-standing blocks on WhatsApp while promoting state-approved WeChat; Iran regularly restricts WhatsApp and Telegram during political unrest; Turkey has implemented temporary WhatsApp blocks during conflicts; and both the UAE and Saudi Arabia limit VoIP functionalities to steer users toward government-approved alternatives.

    Human rights advocates warn that these restrictions fundamentally undermine freedom of expression and privacy rights while exposing citizens to unprecedented surveillance capabilities. The Russian case exemplifies how digital control measures are increasingly justified under national security pretexts while eroding democratic values and civil liberties.