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  • Police urge calm even as US strikes threaten SVG’s fishing industry

    Police urge calm even as US strikes threaten SVG’s fishing industry

    Tensions are mounting in the Eastern Caribbean as St. Vincent and the Grenadines fishermen express grave concerns over their safety and economic stability following recent U.S. military operations in regional waters. The U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) confirmed conducting multiple “lethal kinetic strikes” between February 13-16 against vessels allegedly operated by “Designated Terrorist Organizations” engaged in narcotics trafficking, resulting in 11 fatalities.

    While U.S. authorities characterized the operations as targeted actions against narco-terrorists, local fishing communities report the strikes occurred dangerously close to fishing grounds. Winsbert Harry, President of SVG’s National Fisherfolk Organisation, revealed that one February 13 strike occurred approximately 9 miles from Fish Aggregating Device No. 5—a critical fishing area located about 60 miles southeast of St. Vincent in the Grenadines.

    The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force issued a statement acknowledging public concern while attempting to reassure mariners. “The information received so far suggests that this was a targeted, intelligence-led operation and not directed at fishing vessels or ordinary maritime activity,” the statement read, emphasizing that coast guard services remain “present and alert within our maritime space.”

    However, fishing representatives highlight the devastating potential impact on SVG’s blue economy—a key development pillar for the new administration. With nearly 1,000 registered fishing boats landing approximately 10 million pounds of fish valued at EC$16 million in exports last year, the industry faces significant disruption. Fishermen now fear traveling during pre-dawn hours when tuna are most active, potentially reducing catches and threatening livelihoods.

    The National Fisherfolk Organisation is coordinating with regional partners including the Caribbean Network of Fisher Folk Organisations and Caribbean Fisheries Mechanism to develop a unified response. Harry emphasized the need for “one voice to CARICOM” to address security operations that endanger civilian fishing activities in shared Caribbean waters.

  • PM Browne Signals Confidence in Randy Baltimore Ahead of St Philip’s North By-Election

    PM Browne Signals Confidence in Randy Baltimore Ahead of St Philip’s North By-Election

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne has publicly endorsed Randy Baltimore as the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party’s (ABLP) candidate for the imminent St Philip’s North by-election, expressing strong confidence in his prospective parliamentary membership. Browne’s official statement highlighted his anticipation to “formally welcome Mr Baltimore as the newest member of Parliament,” signaling firm institutional support for the candidate. This political development emerges directly from the conclusion of Sir Robin Yearwood’s remarkable five-decade service as the constituency’s parliamentary representative, creating a rare electoral vacancy. The upcoming by-election is poised to become a significant indicator of party influence, particularly within a district traditionally dominated by the ABLP. Both major political organizations have demonstrated substantial engagement with the contest, suggesting a potentially competitive race that could reshape local political dynamics. Political analysts are closely monitoring this election as a barometer for shifting public sentiment and party strength ahead of future national elections.

  • WATCH: Pringle Pays Tribute to Sir Robin but Backs Alex Browne for St Philip’s North By-Election

    WATCH: Pringle Pays Tribute to Sir Robin but Backs Alex Browne for St Philip’s North By-Election

    In a significant political gathering, Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle joined fellow opposition parliamentarians in celebrating the remarkable 50-year legislative career of Sir Robin Yearwood, the longstanding representative for St Philip’s North. The ceremony honored Yearwood’s unprecedented half-century tenure while simultaneously positioning Senator Alex Browne as the designated successor for the upcoming by-election.

    Pringle, who entered Parliament in 2018 as the sole United Progressive Party representative, acknowledged the generational gap between himself and the veteran politician. Despite not being born when Yearwood first assumed office in 1976, Pringle recounted receiving invaluable informal mentorship from the experienced MP during his initial parliamentary term. These corridor conversations about legislative protocols and parliamentary conduct provided crucial guidance during Pringle’s solitary navigation of the political chamber.

    The Opposition Leader characterized Yearwood’s five decades of public service as an extraordinary political achievement, recognizing both the personal and familial sacrifices required to maintain such prolonged political dedication. While praising Yearwood as exceptionally skilled and experienced, Pringle suggested that St Philip’s North constituency might have seen greater developmental progress during his tenure.

    Pringle concluded that while Yearwood could now ‘retire in peace’ with his legacy secured, the constituency’s future development now rests with Senator Alex Browne, whom the opposition leader explicitly endorsed as the right candidate to advance the region’s interests moving forward.

  • Wesley High School initiates centennial festivities, February 25, 2026

    Wesley High School initiates centennial festivities, February 25, 2026

    Wesley High School prepares to embark on a landmark year of festivities as it approaches its 100th anniversary. The institution will formally commence its centenary celebrations with a press launch on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 10:00 AM. The event will be held at the historic Bethesda Methodist Chapel, symbolizing the school’s long-standing foundation.

    According to an official release, this launch initiates twelve months of scheduled events designed to honor a century of educational excellence and character development. Since its establishment in 1926, Wesley High School has played a pivotal role in shaping multiple generations of leaders, skilled professionals, and engaged citizens. These alumni have subsequently made significant contributions to both national development and the wider Caribbean region.

    The upcoming ceremony will bring together a distinguished assembly of past and present students, church dignitaries, and specially invited guests for a collective moment of reflection and gratitude.

    Under the guiding theme, ‘A Century Rooted in Faith, Growing in Excellence and Serving with Love,’ the anniversary program will feature a wide array of engagements. The calendar includes alumni reunions designed to rekindle old connections, community service projects that reflect the school’s ethos, the issuance of special commemorative publications, academic and artistic contests for students, and a grand thanksgiving service.

    The school’s administration emphasized that these carefully curated initiatives are intended to not only celebrate its rich legacy but also to reinforce bonds within its alumni network and among all stakeholders invested in its continued mission.

  • Over 2 Billion People Struggle to See Clearly

    Over 2 Billion People Struggle to See Clearly

    A staggering 2.2 billion individuals worldwide are grappling with vision impairment, with approximately one billion lacking access to basic diagnostic testing or corrective eyewear. This alarming statistic was revealed by Dr. Melissa Diaz-Musa, Director of Public Health and Wellness, during Belize’s inauguration of the World Health Organization’s Specs 2030 global initiative on February 18, 2026.

    The groundbreaking program represents a collaborative effort between the Belize Council for the Visually Impaired (BCVI), the Ministry of Health and Wellness, and optical nonprofit OneSight. Its primary objective is to dramatically improve accessibility to comprehensive eye screenings and affordable vision correction services throughout Belize.

    Educational institutions have been identified as crucial intervention points within the initiative’s framework. Dr. Diaz-Musa emphasized the critical need for early detection, stating, “Numerous students remain undiagnosed, having never undergone professional evaluation by ophthalmologists or optometrists to determine their requirements for visual aids in academic settings.”

    The program’s scope extends beyond educational environments to address refractive errors across broader demographics. By implementing systematic screening protocols and facilitating access to appropriate care, the initiative aims to transform vision healthcare delivery nationwide.

    The launch ceremony convened multidisciplinary stakeholders including healthcare practitioners, primary care providers, and representatives from the Ministry of Education. This coalition signifies a coordinated approach to combating preventable vision disorders through early intervention strategies.

    Dr. Diaz-Musa characterized the event as merely the foundational step in a comprehensive long-term strategy, affirming that the partnership will prioritize early identification of visual impairments to significantly reduce refractive error prevalence across Belize’s population.

  • Wayne Letang officially appointed as Fire Chief of Dominica

    Wayne Letang officially appointed as Fire Chief of Dominica

    Wayne Letang has been formally installed as the Chief Fire Officer of Dominica following an extensive period serving in an acting capacity. The appointment, which became effective on January 1st, 2026, marks a significant milestone in his dedicated career with the Dominican Fire and Ambulance Services.

    During a press conference addressing his official promotion, Letang expressed gratitude toward the Ministry of National Security, its Minister, and the Public Service Commission for entrusting him with the leadership role. He emphasized that his motivation has never been driven by financial gain or status, but rather by a commitment to productivity, professionalism, and national service.

    Letang stated, ‘I was not overly excited when the appointment came because I’ve been doing the work, and I will continue to do that work with 100 percent of my heart. It’s about the nation and the fire and ambulance services.’

    Under his leadership, the Dominican Fire and Ambulance Services aim to implement substantial improvements in operational conditions and organizational professionalism. Letang affirmed that these enhancements are a shared objective between the division and the Ministry of National Security.

    With a career spanning over 21 years, Letang joined the service as early as February 2003, initially serving as Deputy Fire Chief. He has held several acting leadership roles throughout his tenure, progressively advancing through uniformed positions and earning a reputation for steadfast dedication to public safety and emergency response.

  • Two Vehicles Extensively Damaged in Major Hatton Collision

    Two Vehicles Extensively Damaged in Major Hatton Collision

    A severe traffic collision involving two vehicles occurred in Hatton, resulting in extensive damage to both automobiles and causing significant disruption to local traffic flow. Emergency services, including police and paramedics, were promptly dispatched to the scene following reports of the accident.

    Initial assessments from first responders indicate that the impact was substantial enough to deform the structural frames of both vehicles, though specific details regarding the vehicles’ makes and models haven’t been officially released. Authorities have cordoned off the affected area to facilitate cleanup operations and allow for a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances leading to the collision.

    While the exact cause remains under formal investigation by traffic safety officials, early reports suggest that road conditions and potential driver error may have contributed to the incident. Medical personnel evaluated those involved at the scene; however, the full extent of any injuries sustained hasn’t been disclosed to the public yet.

    Local transportation authorities have advised motorists to seek alternative routes as cleanup and investigation efforts continue. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety measures and adherence to traffic regulations, particularly in areas prone to accidents.

  • Rescued Pets Feel the Love at Valentine’s Clinic in Belize City

    Rescued Pets Feel the Love at Valentine’s Clinic in Belize City

    BELIZE CITY – In a heartwarming Valentine’s Day initiative, 40 rescued dogs and cats received essential medical care through a special clinic organized by animal welfare advocates. The Society for the Promotion of Animal Rescue and Kindness (SPARK) hosted its first large-scale spay and neuter operation in over a decade, marking a significant milestone in Belize’s animal welfare efforts.

    Held at the Animal Medical Center in Belama, the clinic provided critical surgeries for 31 dogs and nine cats, all currently in rescue or foster care situations. The event was strategically timed during February’s animal advocacy month and Valentine’s weekend to emphasize themes of compassion and kindness toward animals.

    SPARK President Michelle Rudon emphasized the long-overdue nature of the event, noting that such large-scale clinics hadn’t been available in Belize City for approximately ten years. “February is actually the month for animal advocacy for spay and neuter campaigns,” Rudon explained. “With Valentine’s weekend, when we’re supposed to be advocating for love, kindness, and compassion – that’s exactly what we wanted to show.”

    The medical procedures were conducted by a collaborative team featuring visiting US veterinarian Dr. Guy Nation and local veterinary expert Dr. Orlando Baptist. SPARK volunteers provided comprehensive support including patient check-ins, postoperative monitoring, and follow-up care to ensure successful recoveries.

    Following the event, SPARK has continued its outreach efforts, checking on all treated animals to monitor their recovery progress, eating habits, hydration levels, and surgical sites. The organization is actively seeking additional community support through foster homes and financial contributions, with plans to launch a micro-donation campaign inviting Belizeans to contribute just $1 toward future animal welfare initiatives.

  • Holi valt dit jaar op dinsdag 3 maart

    Holi valt dit jaar op dinsdag 3 maart

    The Ministry of Home Affairs of Suriname has formally declared Tuesday, March 3rd as the official date for this year’s Holi celebration, according to an official government announcement. Minister Marinus Bee, who signed the proclamation, confirmed that the national holiday will carry the same legal status as Sunday observances.

    Holi, traditionally known as Phagwa within Surinamese culture, represents one of the most significant festivals for the Hindu community. This vibrant celebration embodies the symbolic victory of righteousness over malevolence while simultaneously heralding the arrival of spring. The festivities emphasize core values of communal harmony, reconciliation, and collective joy through traditional rituals and colorful ceremonies.

    The governmental recognition underscores Suriname’s commitment to cultural diversity and religious inclusion. By granting national holiday status equivalent to Sundays, the administration ensures widespread participation across all societal segments. This institutional acknowledgment reflects the country’s rich multicultural tapestry where Hindu traditions form an integral part of the national identity.

    The announcement follows established protocols for cultural and religious observances within the South American nation, where Hindu festivals maintain significant cultural prominence due to historical demographic patterns. The fixed date determination provides clarity for public and private sector planning while honoring the spiritual significance of the ancient festival.

  • Fisherman pleads guilty to possession of 22.9lbs of cocaine

    Fisherman pleads guilty to possession of 22.9lbs of cocaine

    A significant drug enforcement operation in St. Vincent and the Grenadines has resulted in criminal proceedings against two individuals following the seizure of substantial narcotics. Sebastian Audain, a 36-year-old fisherman from Lowmans Bay known as “Bush,” has entered a guilty plea for possession and trafficking of 22.9 pounds of cocaine confiscated by authorities in West Kingstown. Meanwhile, his co-defendant Alvin Cyrus, also 36 and from Largo Height, has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

    The successful interdiction emerged from a coordinated effort involving multiple specialized police units, including Narcotics, Rapid Response, and Special Services teams. While authorities have not disclosed the exact community within the constituency where the drugs were discovered, they emphasized the operational significance of the seizure.

    Audain remains in custody awaiting sentencing scheduled for Thursday at the Layou Magistrate Court. Cyrus has been granted bail set at EC$30,000 and is required to reappear before the Serious Offences Court on March 2 for further proceedings.

    In an official statement, the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force highlighted the importance of inter-departmental cooperation in combating drug trafficking. “The success of this undertaking highlights the value of specialized units moving in unison to address specific threats to our communities,” the statement read. “When these divisions align, they create an operational reach necessary to intercept illegal substances before they circulate further.”

    Law enforcement officials emphasized that the presence of such substantial narcotics quantities in residential areas demonstrates the ongoing challenges in maintaining community safety. The police force reaffirmed its commitment to persistent monitoring and intervention against organized drug activities, acknowledging the crucial role of public cooperation in these efforts.

    Authorities have encouraged citizens with relevant information to contact Police Control at 457-1211 or the Public Relations and Complaints Department at 485-6891, assuring complete confidentiality for all tips provided.