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  • Booby Alley Housing Project Expected to Be Substantially Completed by June

    Booby Alley Housing Project Expected to Be Substantially Completed by June

    Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced significant progress on the Booby Alley housing redevelopment initiative, projecting substantial completion by June with final unit handovers anticipated for August. The announcement came during the Prime Minister’s regular weekly address on Pointe FM, where he provided updates on the transformative urban renewal project.

    Construction of the modern residential complex in the Point district is advancing consistently toward its concluding phases. “I anticipate substantial completion around June, with formal handover procedures commencing in August, after which we will initiate the distribution process,” Browne stated regarding the project timeline.

    This redevelopment represents a cornerstone of the government’s comprehensive strategy to revitalize the historically marginalized Booby Alley community. The initiative involves replacing outdated residential structures with contemporary housing units and enhanced infrastructure systems designed to modern standards.

    Prime Minister Browne characterized the development as a substantial enhancement for the area, simultaneously highlighting the necessity for corresponding upgrades to adjacent roadway networks. He emphasized that the surrounding infrastructure must reflect the quality of the new construction, noting: “This is an exceptional facility that will require roadways commensurate with the superior homes we’re constructing.”

    The Booby Alley transformation constitutes a pivotal element of the administration’s broader urban regeneration campaign, targeting improved living conditions and comprehensive community rehabilitation in one of St. John’s most historically underserved neighborhoods.

  • Iran benoemt Khamenei’s hardline zoon Mojtaba als nieuwe Opperste leider

    Iran benoemt Khamenei’s hardline zoon Mojtaba als nieuwe Opperste leider

    In a decisive move that solidifies hardline control, Iran’s Assembly of Experts has appointed Mojtaba Khamenei as the nation’s third Supreme Leader, succeeding his father Ali Khamenei who perished in recent attacks. The midnight announcement came amid escalating hostilities that have entered their ninth day, with Tehran witnessing massive explosions at fuel storage facilities that illuminated the night sky with orange flames.

    Mojtaba Khamenei, a cleric with extensive influence within Iran’s security apparatus and business networks, secured the position through a conclusive vote by the 88-member clerical body responsible for leadership succession. The appointment grants him ultimate authority over all state matters in the Islamic Republic.

    The transition occurs against a backdrop of intensified military conflict that has claimed at least 1,332 Iranian civilian lives according to Iran’s UN ambassador, with thousands more injured. U.S. forces confirmed a seventh American casualty from injuries sustained during Iran’s initial counterattack one week ago.

    The expanding warfare has severely disrupted global oil markets, with U.S. oil futures surging over 20% to reach July 2022 peaks amid supply concerns and potential disruptions to Hormuz Strait shipments. Attacks on energy infrastructure have created toxic atmospheric conditions throughout Tehran, described by residents as blanketing the city in thick black smoke.

    Iranian military leadership has pledged allegiance to the new Supreme Leader, with Revolutionary Guard commanders expressing readiness to follow his directives. Security chief Ali Larijani confirmed the Assembly convened despite explicit threats targeting the body, emphasizing Mojtaba’s capability to lead under current sensitive conditions.

    The appointment has drawn sharp international reactions, with President Trump asserting Washington should have approval rights over the selection, while Israel previously threatened to attack any appointed successor. Iranian officials have responded defiantly, with Parliament President Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf stating Tehran seeks no ceasefire and will punish aggressors.

    As combat operations intensify, Israeli forces continue targeting high-ranking Iranian officials, including recently appointed military office head Abolqasem Babaian, killed in a Saturday strike. The conflict has entered what Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei termed a “dangerous new phase,” characterizing attacks on fuel depots as war crimes due to hazardous material release.

  • NDP govt’s first 100 days a ‘wonderful experience,’ says PM Friday

    NDP govt’s first 100 days a ‘wonderful experience,’ says PM Friday

    Prime Minister Godwin Friday has characterized his New Democratic Party (NDP) administration’s initial 100 days in office as “a wonderful experience,” citing significant progress on campaign promises and policy implementation. The NDP’s landslide victory on November 27, which ended the Unity Labour Party’s 25-year reign with a decisive 14-1 parliamentary majority, has ushered in a new era of governance for St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

    In a recent appearance on Hot 97 FM alongside cabinet colleagues, Friday expressed satisfaction with his government’s ability to deliver on key pledges within the promised timeframe. “We said within 60 days we will do certain things to ease the cost-of-living crisis on the people in this country, and we did so,” the Prime Minister stated, emphasizing ongoing efforts to identify additional measures for public benefit.

    The administration has implemented several cornerstone policies, including the reinstatement of public sector workers terminated under the previous government’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate. Friday described this as honoring both campaign commitments and principled positions, noting his government is “not mincing words with reinstating” and working with unions to ensure a smooth transition for affected individuals who “have been through hell.”

    Economic measures have featured prominently in the government’s early actions. The December 19 VAT-free shopping day, which Friday characterized as “a serious measure to put money back in people’s pockets” rather than a gimmick, provided both consumer relief and business stimulation. The administration has also distributed approximately EC$22 million in tax-free bonuses to approximately 12,000 public servants, pensioners, and daily-paid workers as promised during election campaigning.

    Looking forward, the government plans to reduce Value Added Tax from 16% to 13% later this year, a move Friday described as strategic rather than delayed, requiring proper implementation planning. Additionally, public assistance payments will increase to EC$500 monthly beginning in March, exceeding the EC$360 proposed by the previous administration.

    Despite inheriting what some describe as a challenging fiscal situation with public debt at EC$3.5 billion (110.3% of GDP), Friday maintains a forward-looking perspective. His EC$1.9 billion budget presentation in February introduced no new taxes, focusing instead on efficient collection of existing revenues and creating economic opportunities through private sector development and foreign investment.

  • Column: De lente die niet wijkt

    Column: De lente die niet wijkt

    Across conflict-ravaged regions from Gaza to Afghanistan, an extraordinary juxtaposition unfolds as communities simultaneously observe Nowruz celebrations and Ramadan fasting rituals amidst unimaginable devastation. While international observers document the destruction, local residents continue centuries-old traditions with profound determination.

    In Tehran’s Tajrish Bazaar, women smile while holding flower bouquets in preparation for Nowruz, the Persian New Year that coincides with Ramadan this year. This visual symbolism contrasts sharply with scenes from Afghanistan where families clean homes surrounded by unrecovered rubble, plant flowers in pots while the earth thirsts for blood, and prepare feasts despite countless empty tables.

    The convergence of these observances creates powerful philosophical contradictions: Muslims worldwide engage in soul purification through fasting and prayer while in Gaza, Iran, Afghanistan, Syria, Yemen, and Sudan, bodies are prepared for burial with nothing but silence. Children are extracted from rubble rather than breaking their fast with dates at sunset. Mothers are buried by daughters who should be fitting new dresses for Eid celebrations.

    This persistent adherence to tradition represents what analysts term the ‘Mahdi concept’ – not a messianic figure descending from heaven, but a collective spiritual resilience that refuses to surrender to imposed circumstances. The act of cleaning homes, laying new carpets, watering flowers, and extending invitations becomes revolutionary resistance against destruction.

    Historical parallels emerge from Islamic teachings, notably Prophet Mohammed’s saying: “If the Day of Judgment arrives while one of you holds a seedling, let him plant it.” This ethos of planting despite impending doom, celebrating life within death’s shadow, forms the indestructible core of human spirit currently manifesting across conflict zones.

    The profound wisdom underlying these traditions suggests that as long as communities maintain cultural practices – cleaning, planting, inviting, fasting, praying, hoping – victory does not belong to those who believe violence holds the final word. This dual observance of Nowruz and Ramadan transcends cultural ritual to become what anthropologists identify as the most subversive resistance: refusing to stop living.

    The immense irony between what these holy days represent and what they have become creates nearly unbearable tension. Yet within this tension germinates the unbreakable seed of human resilience, demonstrating that true spring is not a season but a conscious decision to embody renewal despite surrounding destruction.

  • Directeur SBB krijgt ontslag aangezegd en kondigt juridisch verweer aan

    Directeur SBB krijgt ontslag aangezegd en kondigt juridisch verweer aan

    Suriname’s forest management authority faces leadership turmoil as Ruben Ravenberg, Director-General of the Foundation for Forest Management and Production Control (SBB), has been issued a dismissal notice. The controversy centers on conflicting employment contracts discovered during an internal investigation.

    An oversight committee review revealed two distinct employment agreements in Ravenberg’s personnel file. The initial contract, dated December 22, 2023, established a five-year term from January 1, 2024, through December 31, 2028, based on official government authorization.

    However, investigators uncovered a second agreement signed June 13, 2025, that allegedly appointed Ravenberg as indefinite-term director with enhanced compensation. This subsequent contract referenced the same governmental approval that originally authorized only a fixed-term arrangement.

    The supervisory board determined the indefinite contract was executed without proper nomination or involvement from the foundation’s board of directors, violating organizational statutes that mandate board recommendation for director appointments. The report further noted absence of formal performance evaluation or official resolution authorizing the transition to permanent status.

    Citing these procedural irregularities, the board advised Lands Policy and Forest Management Minister Stanley Soeropawiro to negotiate voluntary termination with Ravenberg to avoid potential litigation and maintain organizational stability.

    The dismissed director has vigorously contested these findings, maintaining he acted in good faith throughout the process. Ravenberg asserts the permanent appointment resulted from direct initiative by the former minister following positive performance assessment. He argues that administrative errors in supervisory decision-making cannot justify consequences for an employee who fulfilled duties appropriately.

    Ravenberg highlights his academic credentials—including advanced degrees in biodiversity and nature conservation—and emphasizes his successful implementation of organizational reforms during his tenure. He has retained legal counsel to formally challenge the dismissal, with potential court action pending ministerial response.

    This leadership crisis emerges during a critical period for Suriname’s forestry sector, where SBB plays vital regulatory roles in forest conservation and timber industry oversight.

  • Camillo says he regretted pledging not to sue while in politics

    Camillo says he regretted pledging not to sue while in politics

    Camillo Gonsalves, former Member of Parliament for East St. George and ex-Finance Minister, has publicly expressed regret over his self-imposed prohibition against filing defamation lawsuits during his political career. The revelation came during his guest appearance on “Morning Comrade,” a program broadcast by the Unity Labour Party’s Star Radio, where he substituted for his father, Opposition Leader Ralph Gonsalves.

    Gonsalves disclosed that before entering politics, he had committed in writing to never pursue legal action against individuals for defamatory statements, a principle rooted in his journalistic training and belief in press freedom. Having earned his first degree in journalism in the United States, he explained how educators “hammer into your head the freedom of the press and that you mustn’t have a chilling effect on people, on the freedom of expression.”

    Despite maintaining this commitment throughout his tenure, Gonsalves acknowledged numerous instances of being defamed, stating: “Many times, I wish I hadn’t made that promise to myself, because I was defamed many, many, many times, and continue to be defamed.” He notably added, “Watch me, I ain’t in office now ah nuh. I go sue yo,” indicating a potential shift in his legal approach post-office.

    The context for these remarks emerged from his criticism of the ruling New Democratic Party’s decision to withdraw state advertising from Star Radio, which has been operational since 2008. While expressing confidence in the station’s resilience, Gonsalves condemned the move as “grounded in spite” rather than fiscal responsibility, emphasizing that “you’re not going to balance the budget on the little $2 that you used to send to Star Radio.”

    Gonsalves further articulated his philosophical stance on media ecosystems, advocating for diverse viewpoints to compete freely unless actors demonstrate malicious intent. During his broadcast, he reinforced his position by reading statements from hemispheric organizations that condemn using state advertising as punishment against government-critical media outlets.

  • Farmers get time served for ganja

    Farmers get time served for ganja

    In a recent judicial proceeding at the Serious Offences Court, two farmers from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines have been sentenced to time already served after pleading guilty to charges of cannabis possession with intent to supply. Joel Harry, 39, of Rose Bank, and Nicholas Franklyn, 53, of Coulls Hill, faced Senior Magistrate Colin John following their arrests during a police operation in February.

    The case originated on February 20 when officers from Questelles and Layou police stations conducted a stop-and-search operation on Pembroke Public Road. During the inspection of vehicle H974 traveling from Buccament Bay toward Kingstown, police discovered 919 grams of cannabis in three transparent bags within Harry’s possession. Simultaneously, authorities found an additional 153 grams in a bag beneath the conductor’s seat where Franklyn had been seated. When questioned, Franklyn immediately acknowledged ownership of the contraband.

    Defense attorney Grant Connell presented mitigation arguments emphasizing that both defendants had already endured three days in prison due to bail condition modifications. Connell highlighted their immediate guilty pleas upon arraignment on February 23, which conserved judicial resources, and noted the minimal street value of approximately EC$100 for Franklyn’s portion of the cannabis.

    Senior Magistrate John ultimately ruled that the time already spent in custody constituted sufficient penalty, ordering the destruction of the confiscated substances while releasing both men from further incarceration.

  • Caribbean Family Planning Affiliation International Women’s Day 2026 message

    Caribbean Family Planning Affiliation International Women’s Day 2026 message

    On International Women’s Day, the Caribbean Family Planning Affiliation (CFPA) has issued a powerful regional call to action, demanding concrete progress in transforming policy commitments into tangible realities for women and girls across the archipelago. The organization emphasized that while Caribbean governments have made significant legislative strides through ratifying international conventions and enacting laws against gender-based violence, implementation gaps persist dramatically in daily lived experiences.

    The CFPA’s statement highlighted several critical areas where progress remains inadequate. Survivors of gender-based violence continue facing substantial barriers when seeking justice and support services. Comprehensive sexual and reproductive healthcare access remains inconsistent, particularly affecting adolescents, migrant populations, and remote hinterland communities. Deep-seated structural inequalities and harmful gender norms continue restricting opportunities and undermining bodily autonomy throughout the region.

    Reverend Patricia Sheerattan-Bisnauth, CEO of CFPA, emphasized the crucial role of collaborative efforts: ‘Faith communities possess unique influence in shaping societal values and promoting compassion. When religious leaders, policymakers, and civil society organizations unite, they establish the essential moral foundations required for sustainable transformation.’

    Board member Jade Trim further contextualized the issue: ‘Advancing sexual and reproductive rights transcends healthcare policy—it fundamentally impacts women’s economic empowerment, democratic participation, and overall sustainable development across our nations.’

    The CFPA reaffirmed its commitment to fostering strengthened partnerships between governments, regional institutions, civil society organizations, and faith communities. This collaborative approach aims to ensure every Caribbean woman and girl can live free from violence, exercise autonomy over personal decisions, and participate fully in shaping societal development.

    In a region historically strengthened by solidarity among small states, the organization stressed that collective action remains imperative for confronting contemporary challenges including geopolitical pressures, widening inequality, and democratic governance concerns. The CFPA concluded that true Caribbean prosperity remains intrinsically linked to the flourishing of all women and girls throughout the region.

  • CountryFest Crowns New Winners in Groovy and Jumpy Categories

    CountryFest Crowns New Winners in Groovy and Jumpy Categories

    ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — The vibrant village of Urlings transformed into a hub of musical excellence this weekend as CountryFest hosted its annual competition, showcasing exceptional talent across two distinct performance categories. The event featured spirited contests for both Groovy and Jumpy musical styles, with emerging and established artists vying for recognition and substantial monetary awards.

    In a notable development for the Caribbean music scene, newcomer Raiine achieved a breakthrough victory in the Groovy category, securing the championship title and accompanying $1,500 prize. The competition saw seasoned performer Dan Fergus claim first runner-up position with a $1,000 award, while Peetron earned second runner-up honors and $500.

    The Jumpy category witnessed equally impressive performances, with Blaze delivering a captivating set that earned him the top prize of $1,500. Dior demonstrated remarkable artistry to finish as first runner-up with $1,000, while Dah Wizz captured second runner-up position and $500.

    This year’s outcomes signal a changing of the guard in Antigua’s music landscape, contrasting with last year’s results where Bless Eye dominated the Groovy competition and Zion claimed victory in the Jumpy category.

    Event organizers MnM Music Group expressed gratitude to all participating artists and attendees, characterizing the festival as a triumphant celebration that harmoniously blended musical innovation, creative expression, and community engagement. The successful event underscores the continuing evolution and vitality of Antigua’s entertainment industry.

  • New chair notes directors’ role in safeguarding Lotto

    New chair notes directors’ role in safeguarding Lotto

    In a landmark moment for institutional governance, the newly constituted board of the National Lotteries Authority (NLA) held its inaugural meeting on Thursday under the historic chairmanship of Luann Hadaway. This appointment marks the first time a woman has led the board since the authority’s establishment four decades ago in 1984.

    Chairperson Hadaway, leveraging nearly forty years of expertise in banking and finance, articulated a powerful vision centered on restoring public trust and institutional integrity. She emphasized the profound responsibility bestowed upon the board to safeguard what she described as a vital public trust belonging collectively to the nation’s citizens, rather than any individual or political entity.

    The composition of the new board reflects a deliberate emphasis on diverse professional competencies. Deputy Chair Bryan Alexander brings multifaceted experience as an entrepreneur, accountant, and musician. They are joined by Olson James (ACCA Certified Accountant specializing in financial reporting and auditing), Teressia Bruce (human resources and general management), Delisia Charles-Defreitas (business and project management), Sheena Child (administrative professional specializing in project coordination), and Esteban Hernandez (accounting and finance).

    In her address, Hadaway acknowledged the contributions of former manager McGregory Sealey and the outgoing board while drawing a clear line under past practices. Without explicit accusation, she implicitly addressed historical concerns by stating the board would ensure management operates within “a strong framework of controls and ethical standards.” This appears responsive to previous allegations that the NLA had been utilized as a discretionary fund by the former Unity Labour Party government, which left office in November 2025.

    The chairperson outlined a comprehensive governance framework built on four pillars: stringent financial oversight, responsible gaming practices, transparent communication, and absolute confidentiality regarding board deliberations. She notably framed the NLA’s mission as extending beyond mere revenue generation, defining success through “how responsibly those revenues are managed and how meaningfully they benefit national development.

    The authority, operating under the Ministry of Finance, will continue its mandated support for sports and culture (approximately 80% of allocations) while maintaining its expanded role in education, healthcare, and community development (approximately 20%). Hadaway concluded by emphasizing that robust foundations in governance would ensure the institution’s longevity and public confidence, noting that “public confidence is fragile—earned slowly and lost quickly.”