作者: admin

  • FLASH : Official Calendar of Upcoming Elections

    FLASH : Official Calendar of Upcoming Elections

    The Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) of Haiti has formally presented the Executive branch with a detailed electoral calendar and draft electoral decree, marking a significant step toward the nation’s upcoming elections. The calendar, submitted on November 14, 2025, outlines a meticulous timeline of activities leading to the election of a new president by early 2027. For the process to proceed smoothly, the CEP has emphasized the necessity of three critical prerequisites: the timely publication of the electoral decree in the official journal ‘Le Moniteur,’ the establishment of adequate security conditions, and the availability of sufficient financial resources. The calendar spans over two years, encompassing key phases such as voter registration, candidate accreditation, electoral campaigns, and the deployment of temporary staff. The first round of legislative and presidential elections is slated for August 30, 2026, with the second round scheduled for December 6, 2026. Final results for the presidential and legislative elections are expected to be published by January 7, 2027, while local government results will be announced by January 20, 2027. The CEP has also highlighted the importance of public awareness campaigns and the recruitment of personnel to ensure the integrity and efficiency of the electoral process. The full calendar is available for download in PDF format, providing transparency and accessibility to the public.

  • Lisa vs Guy: Candidates outline their plans to revitalise Castries South East

    Lisa vs Guy: Candidates outline their plans to revitalise Castries South East

    As Saint Lucia’s general election approaches, Castries South East has become a focal point of political attention, with two candidates presenting starkly different visions for the constituency’s future. Lisa C. Jawahir, the Saint Lucia Labour Party’s (SLP) newly launched candidate, is championing sustainability and eco-tourism, while Guy Joseph of the United Workers Party (UWP) is emphasizing practical, community-driven projects.

    Lisa Jawahir, officially introduced as the SLP candidate on September 21, aims to succeed outgoing MP Joachim Henry. Her campaign centers on unlocking the constituency’s potential through initiatives like upgrading sporting facilities, promoting agribusiness, and positioning Castries South East as a hub for eco-tourism. Jawahir, a native of Forestière, has already gained national and regional recognition, including her recent election as vice president of ParlAmericas Caribbean’s Gender Equality Network. She has pledged to prioritize inclusivity, sustainability, and climate-conscious development.

    In contrast, Guy Joseph, a three-term former MP, is focusing on immediate, tangible benefits for the community. His campaign highlights projects such as creating a dirt bike track near Bexon playing fields and organizing events like a fresh meat festival in Marc to stimulate local businesses. Joseph, a seasoned entrepreneur with deep roots in the area, has a track record of spearheading infrastructure projects, including affordable housing developments and road improvements during his parliamentary tenure.

    Castries South East, one of the largest constituencies in the Castries District, is home to 16,140 residents across rural and semi-urban communities. Despite its potential, the area faces persistent challenges, including poor road conditions, flooding, and limited youth opportunities. While recent projects like drainage improvements and slope stabilization have been completed, residents argue that more needs to be done to address these issues and realize the constituency’s full potential.

    As the election draws near, voters in Castries South East must choose between Joseph’s focus on practical, community-based economic initiatives and Jawahir’s vision of sustainable development and eco-tourism. The outcome will shape the future of this diverse and dynamic constituency.

  • Antigua and Barbuda Nominated for Caribbean’s Best Cruise Destination at 2025 World Cruise Awards

    Antigua and Barbuda Nominated for Caribbean’s Best Cruise Destination at 2025 World Cruise Awards

    Antigua and Barbuda has been shortlisted for the prestigious title of Caribbean’s Best Cruise Destination at the 5th Annual World Cruise Awards 2025. The announcement, made by Antigua Cruise Port, highlights the nation’s dedication to providing exceptional experiences for cruise passengers. The nomination is a testament to the efforts of destination ambassadors who have played a pivotal role in enhancing the visitor experience. The public is now being urged to cast their votes before the November 16, 2025 deadline. A statement from the organization emphasized, ‘Let’s unite and show the world why Antigua & Barbuda continues to shine as a premier Caribbean cruise destination,’ while expressing gratitude to supporters for their unwavering trust in the country’s tourism industry. This recognition underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to maintaining its status as a top-tier destination in the global cruise market.

  • Man vuurt schoten af op echtgenote

    Man vuurt schoten af op echtgenote

    A domestic dispute turned violent in Bomapolder, Series 11, when a 57-year-old man fired multiple shots from a hunting rifle towards his wife during a heated argument on the morning of November 15 at approximately 9:30 AM. The altercation, reportedly stemming from ongoing marital issues, took a dangerous turn as the bullets missed their intended target and instead struck two nearby homes and a parked vehicle, leaving visible bullet marks. Authorities responded swiftly to the scene, apprehending the suspect and confiscating the firearm for further investigation. Preliminary reports indicate that the incident was motivated by a family-related dispute. The police are continuing their investigation to uncover further details surrounding the case.

  • COMMENTARY: The 1974 regional cadet camp at Londonderry,  Dominica – A triumph of Caribbean unity and youth leadership

    COMMENTARY: The 1974 regional cadet camp at Londonderry, Dominica – A triumph of Caribbean unity and youth leadership

    In the 1970s, as the Caribbean navigated its post-colonial identity, the 1974 Regional Cadet Camp at Londonderry Regional Youth Camp in Dominica emerged as a beacon of discipline, cooperation, and regional unity. This historic event brought together the Combermere School Cadet Unit of Barbados, led by Lieutenant Deighton Maynard, and the Dominica Cadet Corps Band, under the leadership of Major Lyndon Earle Johnson. The camp showcased not only military precision but also the shared Caribbean ideals of fraternity and service. Major Johnson’s organizational brilliance and Lieutenant Maynard’s charisma created an environment of efficiency and camaraderie, fostering cultural exchange and lifelong bonds. Despite logistical challenges posed by the global oil crisis, the camp succeeded, leaving an indelible mark on participants. Decades later, a 2021 Zoom reunion highlighted the enduring impact of the camp, with former cadets reflecting on its role in shaping their leadership and character. The event also celebrated trailblazers like Margot Greene, the first female cadet, who symbolized the expanding role of women in leadership. The 1974 Londonderry Camp remains a proud chapter in Caribbean history, embodying unity, discipline, and shared destiny.

  • Een tijdloos Tibet: het verhaal van het Potala Palace

    Een tijdloos Tibet: het verhaal van het Potala Palace

    In a groundbreaking fusion of technology and culture, participants of the China International Press Communication Center 2025 Program were transported to the iconic Potala Palace in Tibet—without leaving Beijing. Through the immersive power of virtual reality (VR), they embarked on a journey that transcended time and space, offering a vivid glimpse into the rich heritage of Tibetan Buddhism. The experience, facilitated by VR headsets, allowed participants to explore the palace’s intricate architecture, stunning murals, and serene landscapes, all while standing in a 15-by-5-meter room in the heart of Beijing. The virtual tour began with a breathtaking view of snow-capped mountains, leading to the discovery of the palace perched high above the Lhasa Valley. Guided by a priestess in a vibrant red robe, participants navigated through the White and Red Palaces, marveled at ancient murals, and even floated above a desert landscape. The experience culminated in a spiritual moment, where participants held glowing orbs symbolizing their wishes and prayers. This innovative use of VR not only preserves cultural heritage but also transforms it into an engaging, interactive experience, far removed from traditional history lessons. The Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994, remains a testament to Tibetan, Chinese, and Indian architectural brilliance. This virtual journey highlights the potential of technology to make history accessible and captivating for future generations.

  • Dominican endocrinologist urges personal responsibility in fight against diabetes

    Dominican endocrinologist urges personal responsibility in fight against diabetes

    Dr. Natasha Maxime-Esprit, an endocrinologist with Dominica’s Ministry of Health, has issued a compelling call to action for citizens to take greater personal responsibility for their health. Speaking at the Dominica Diabetes Association Conference on November 14, 2025, in recognition of World Diabetes Day, Dr. Maxime-Esprit emphasized the critical role of individual accountability in combating diabetes and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Since joining the Ministry in 2022, she has been at the forefront of efforts to prevent, diagnose, and manage endocrine disorders, with diabetes accounting for 75% of her caseload. Each month, she consults with 200 to 300 patients across Dominica, ranging from a three-year-old with type 1 diabetes to a 93-year-old with type 2 diabetes. Dr. Maxime-Esprit underscored that diabetes does not discriminate by age or gender, affecting individuals across all demographics. Her presentation, titled ‘A Call to Personal Responsibility,’ highlighted the importance of knowing one’s health status and making proactive choices. She shared a poignant case of a 35-year-old woman who presented with blurry vision and severe headaches, only to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and hypertension. The patient, who had not undergone blood tests since age 18, had been unknowingly diabetic for at least three months, with lifestyle factors exacerbating her condition. Over the past five years, Dominica has recorded approximately 531 new cases of type 2 diabetes, with women constituting the majority and the youngest patient being just 15 years old. The Ministry of Health has ramped up its efforts against NCDs, expanding free specialized clinics, nutrition services, and screening programs. However, Dr. Maxime-Esprit stressed that medical interventions alone are insufficient. She identified unhealthy lifestyles, disregard for health when feeling well, and non-compliance with prescribed treatment as major contributors to diabetes complications, all of which hinge on individual choices. She urged citizens to take simple steps such as regular health checks, purchasing home monitoring devices, and setting aside funds for preventive care. The young woman in the case study is now responding well to treatment, having embraced lifestyle changes and medical guidance. Dr. Maxime-Esprit concluded with a hopeful message, affirming that diabetes is not a death sentence and can be managed with early detection and personal responsibility.

  • Wickham: Opposition on backfoot after Pierre’s early election call

    Wickham: Opposition on backfoot after Pierre’s early election call

    In a surprising move, St. Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has announced a general election for December 1, nearly a year ahead of schedule. This decision has sparked widespread discussion, particularly from political analyst Peter Wickham, who initially predicted Pierre would delay the election until the completion of a major hospital project. Wickham, a prominent regional pollster and director of Caribbean Development Research Services (CADRES), described the Prime Minister’s decision as an act of ‘political bravery,’ potentially catching the opposition off guard. The governing Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) and the opposition United Workers Party (UWP) are now locked in a heated debate over the hospital’s completion status, with Wickham suggesting Pierre’s timing reflects a strategic assessment of political advantage. UWP leader Allen Chastanet has dismissed claims of unpreparedness, asserting his party’s readiness for the contest. However, Wickham noted that the early election disrupts the opposition’s usual regrouping rhythm, giving the incumbent SLP a potential edge. Historically, early elections in the Caribbean have often signaled government instability, but Wickham emphasized that Pierre’s move appears driven by confidence in his advantageous position. The upcoming election marks a critical test for St. Lucia’s political landscape, as no party has secured consecutive terms in over two decades. Wickham highlighted Pierre’s strong position, citing his decisive 2021 victory and the public’s apparent desire for stability. Meanwhile, the UWP, despite its 2021 defeat, has rebuilt its roster with 12 new candidates, a move Wickham credited to Chastanet’s leadership. Nevertheless, the UWP faces significant challenges, including limited voter familiarity with its new candidates. Wickham refrained from predicting the election outcome, noting the short campaign period and the dynamic nature of the race.

  • PM Says New Crane Marks Major Step Toward Transshipment Hub

    PM Says New Crane Marks Major Step Toward Transshipment Hub

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne has heralded the commissioning of a state-of-the-art cargo-handling crane at the Deepwater Harbour as a pivotal milestone in Antigua and Barbuda’s ambitious plan to establish itself as a regional transshipment hub. The new crane, Browne emphasized, is not merely an operational enhancement but a strategic investment in the nation’s future, symbolizing the government’s dedication to modernization, competitiveness, and global connectivity. This development follows an estimated EC$500 million investment in modernizing both cargo and cruise ports over recent years. The prime minister highlighted that the crane will significantly boost cargo-handling capacity, streamline turnaround times, and enhance the reliability of port operations. These improvements are expected to facilitate business operations, benefiting importers, exporters, and local entrepreneurs through faster and more efficient services. Browne articulated a broader vision of transforming Antigua and Barbuda into a premier regional transshipment port, leveraging expanded capabilities, cutting-edge technology, and robust logistics infrastructure to attract major shipping lines. Increased cargo volumes are anticipated to reduce freight and handling costs, thereby lowering the overall cost of doing business. The government also foresees heightened revenues from taxes, fees, and port-related services as transshipment activities grow. Additionally, the initiative is projected to generate employment opportunities for technicians, engineers, logistics specialists, and young professionals entering the maritime sector. Beyond the port, Browne envisions the burgeoning maritime economy spurring new industries such as bunkering, ship repair, marine supplies, and warehousing. He concluded that the transformation of the port into a transshipment hub will serve as a major driver of national economic growth and a significant contributor to the country’s GDP. The crane, Browne declared, stands as a “symbol of progress,” signaling Antigua and Barbuda’s readiness to thrive in a competitive global environment.

  • Light & Power crew assisting Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa

    Light & Power crew assisting Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa

    In a remarkable display of Caribbean solidarity, the Barbados Light & Power Company Ltd (Light & Power) has swiftly responded to the urgent appeal from the Jamaica Power Service Company Ltd (JPS) in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which caused extensive power outages across Jamaica. Leveraging the CARILEC Disaster Assistance Program (CDAP), Light & Power dispatched a proficient five-member team to assist in the restoration of electricity in the affected regions. The crew, led by Distribution Supervisor Eddie Cummings and including linemen Omar Bowen, Mustafa Haqq, Patrice Vache, and Kurt Vidal, embarked on their mission from Barbados on November 12. Over the next three weeks, they will collaborate with local teams to restore power in St James, one of the parishes most severely impacted by the hurricane. At a send-off ceremony, Light & Power’s Managing Director Roger Blackman and Vice President of Operations Johann Greaves lauded the volunteers for their dedication and stressed the importance of safety and adherence to protocols in the challenging conditions they will face. Blackman expressed gratitude on behalf of Light & Power and CARILEC, highlighting the significance of regional cooperation during crises. Greaves echoed these sentiments, expressing confidence in the team’s ability to represent both the company and Barbados with pride. This initiative underscores the critical role of collaborative efforts among CARILEC members, an association of electric utility providers across the Caribbean and the Americas, in addressing natural disasters. By sharing resources and expertise, these organizations aim to expedite recovery, strengthen infrastructure, and deliver essential support when it is most needed.