Carib Scope

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  • Dominica confirmed as beneficiary for new world-class athletic facility

    Dominica confirmed as beneficiary for new world-class athletic facility

    The Commonwealth of Dominica has achieved a significant athletic milestone with its official selection as a beneficiary nation under World Athletics’ ambitious Project 10 initiative. This transformative program will fund the construction of a top-tier synthetic track and field complex certified to World Athletics Class 1 standards, marking a historic advancement for sports infrastructure on the island.

    The development culminates two years of strategic planning and collaborative efforts between the Dominica Athletics Association (DAA) and government stakeholders. In December 2023, the DAA submitted a comprehensive proposal to World Athletics advocating for Dominica’s inclusion. Following rigorous technical evaluations, site assessments, and consultation processes, the island nation has now secured formal approval.

    Critical to this achievement was the recent finalization of an agreement between World Athletics and the Qatar Olympic Committee, which officially endorsed Project 10’s implementation across selected nations. The timing aligns strategically with the Dominican government’s existing master plan for a modern national sports complex in Portsmouth, where land has already been secured. The World Athletics track component will complement broader visions that include an Olympic-sized swimming pool.

    The DAA expressed profound gratitude to multiple stakeholders including Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, Sports Minister Oscar George, and technical teams across government departments. Their collective leadership and unwavering support ensured Dominica met World Athletics’ rigorous standards throughout the proposal and evaluation phases.

    This world-class facility promises to usher in a new era for Dominican athletics, enhancing athlete development programs while expanding capacity to host regional and international competitions. The association anticipates continued collaboration with the Government of Dominica, World Athletics, and the Qatar Olympic Committee to bring this landmark project to fruition.

  • Referee Assaulted After PLB Match

    Referee Assaulted After PLB Match

    The Premier League of Belize (PLB) has denounced a violent assault against a match official that occurred following Thursday’s competitive fixture between Port Loyola FC and Progresso FC at Marion Jones Sporting Complex. This post-match physical attack has prompted the league’s administration to declare the incident both ‘unacceptable’ and a severe jeopardy to the fundamental integrity and personnel safety within the national football structure.

    In an official communiqué, the PLB extended its unequivocal support to the assaulted referee and lauded the rapid intervention executed by officers of the Belize Police Department. Their decisive action was credited with de-escalating a potentially more volatile scenario. Furthermore, the league issued formal commendations for the match-day staff and personnel who maintained professional conduct amidst the public disturbance.

    Consequent to this event, the PLB has enacted immediate, compulsory security enhancements for all its sanctioned matches. These proactive measures mandate an elevated presence of law enforcement and private security personnel. The protocol specifically designates heightened vigilance for fixtures classified as high-risk and will enforce rigorously controlled access zones. This strategic separation is designed to eliminate contact between match officials, team members, technical staff, and spectators.

    The league asserts that these newly instituted regulations are a direct response aimed at forestalling any recurrence of such violence, with the ultimate objective of safeguarding a secure and professional environment at football events across Belize.

  • $340 Million Worth of Cocaine Seized in Caribbean Sea

    $340 Million Worth of Cocaine Seized in Caribbean Sea

    In a significant blow to narcotics trafficking networks, the Colombian Navy has intercepted more than seven tonnes of cocaine with an estimated street value exceeding $340 million during dual operations in the Caribbean Sea. The major drug busts occurred approximately 90 nautical miles from Barranquilla and within the Gulf of Morrosquillo, resulting in the apprehension of eleven suspected traffickers.

    Official photographs released by Colombian authorities depict seized vessels alongside substantial stacks of cocaine packages guarded by armed naval personnel, illustrating the scale of the successful interdiction mission.

    This development emerges against a backdrop of escalating diplomatic friction between Colombia and the United States regarding maritime counter-narcotics strategies. Colombian President Gustavo Petro has openly challenged the legality of US-led lethal strikes targeting suspected drug-running vessels, asserting that these operations have resulted in civilian casualties and violate international law.

    According to available data, United States forces have conducted at least 22 maritime strikes since September, resulting in approximately 87 fatalities. The US administration defends these actions as necessary measures to disrupt and dismantle sophisticated drug trafficking organizations, maintaining that targeted vessels were confirmed to be transporting illicit substances. The White House has consistently denied any misconduct in these operations.

  • Top directies en onderdirecties opzij in omvangrijke herschikking MinOWC

    Top directies en onderdirecties opzij in omvangrijke herschikking MinOWC

    The Ministry of Education, Science and Culture (MinOWC) in Suriname has implemented a comprehensive administrative restructuring, resulting in the removal of eight senior officials from their positions. This significant reorganization affects multiple directorates including General Education, Higher and Scientific Education, Technical Services, and Personnel Affairs.

    The ministerial decision follows an extensive review of both policy frameworks and administrative structures within the education sector. Internal assessments and recent Quick Scan evaluations revealed structural inefficiencies necessitating strategic realignment of leadership positions.

    Among those relieved of their duties are: the Director of General Education, Acting Director of Higher and Scientific Education, three deputy directors (Technical Services, General & Personnel Affairs, and Development Service), the Deputy Director of Vocational Education, and the Acting Head of Personnel Affairs. Additionally, the Director of Culture has been reassigned to an international diplomatic post.

    Interim appointments have been made to ensure operational continuity:
    – Gracia Ormskirk assumes role as Acting Director of General Education
    – Haidy Lindveld appointed Acting Director of Higher and Scientific Education
    – Johannes Abielie named Acting Deputy Director of Technical Services
    – Lindsay Vrij takes position as Acting Deputy Director of General and Personnel Affairs
    – Farcia Sastrowitomo appointed Acting Deputy Director of General Education
    – Rubiëlla van Hekelen assumes role as Acting Head of Basic Education Bureau

    The ministry has announced internal recruitment procedures will soon commence for two critical vacancies: Deputy Director of Development Service and Deputy Director of Vocational Education. This restructuring represents one of the most significant administrative overhauls within Suriname’s education sector in recent years, signaling a transformative period for the nation’s educational governance.

  • Everton Jeffers Confirmed as Commissioner of Police

    Everton Jeffers Confirmed as Commissioner of Police

    In a significant law enforcement leadership transition, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has formally appointed Mr. Everton Jeffers as its Commissioner of Police. The confirmation, announced on December 8, 2025, solidifies a position he had occupied in an acting capacity since November 21, 2025.

    Commissioner Jeffers assumes command following the retirement of his predecessor, Atlee Rodney, who concluded a distinguished forty-year career with the police force earlier this year. Mr. Rodney, who served six years as Commissioner after his appointment in November 2019, has transitioned to a new role as Deputy Director of the Regional Security System (RSS).

    Marking a historic milestone, Jeffers becomes the eleventh individual to hold the esteemed position of Commissioner. His appointment is backed by an impressive four-decade tenure within the Force, characterized by exceptional professionalism and an unwavering dedication to national security and public welfare.

    In his inaugural address, Commissioner Jeffers expressed profound humility at his selection. “I am truly humbled to be given this task to lead this noble organization,” he stated, adding, “I can assure the people of this nation that I am committed to continue giving my best service to the nation of Antigua and Barbuda.”

    The newly confirmed Commissioner extended gratitude to his family, colleagues, and supporters for their steadfast encouragement during his provisional leadership. He also paid tribute to Retired Commissioner Rodney for his exemplary national service and wished him success in his regional security position.

    Concurrent with this appointment, the Police Administration announced the promotion of Superintendent Louisa Benjamin Quashie to Deputy Commissioner of Police, effective the same date. This elevation was part of broader organizational realignments that included several other senior officer promotions within the force’s command structure.

    The police leadership has formally congratulated Commissioner Jeffers, Deputy Commissioner Benjamin Quashie, and all newly promoted officers, expressing confidence in their capabilities to uphold national security and serve the citizens of Antigua and Barbuda effectively.

  • V.C. Bird Day church service held ahead of national holiday

    V.C. Bird Day church service held ahead of national holiday

    In a significant convergence of faith and national heritage, Antigua and Barbuda’s highest officials participated in a special Salvation Army service commemorating both Advent season and the legacy of National Hero Sir Vere Cornwall Bird Sr. The ceremony, held at the Salvation Army Citadel on Sunday, set the tone for the upcoming V.C. Bird Day observance on December 9th.

    Governor General Sir Rodney Williams and Prime Minister Gaston Browne joined congregants for a service that blended traditional Advent worship with patriotic tribute. The liturgical elements—including hymns, scripture readings, and prayers—were thoughtfully curated around themes of peace, gratitude, and national solidarity.

    Major Malvi Graham delivered a poignant reflection on Bird’s life, emphasizing his profound connection to the Salvation Army. She characterized the nation’s first prime minister as ‘a man after God’s own heart,’ noting his consistent humility despite occupying the highest political office. Her eulogy highlighted Bird’s unwavering faithfulness in worship, generous giving, and practice of bringing his Cabinet members to services following electoral victories.

    The service incorporated ceremonial elements with high symbolic value: both the Governor General and Prime Minister presented scripture readings as part of the Advent observance, while retired Salvation Army officers lit candles representing hope and peace. Worship leaders called for sustained prayer for the nation’s governance and families experiencing hardship.

    Service announcements included reminders about the official V.C. Bird Day ceremony at the Market Square bust on Tuesday morning. The Salvation Army also detailed its Christmas outreach initiatives, which encompass visits to elderly and hospitalized residents, prison ministry, and food-hamper distribution programs. With community needs growing, the organization encouraged public support for its annual kettle appeal.

    The ceremony concluded with prayers of thanksgiving and calls for national unity—qualities speakers directly attributed to Bird’s enduring legacy.

  • United Progressive Party: Stop all mining in Deaux Branch, issue is bigger than a political party

    United Progressive Party: Stop all mining in Deaux Branch, issue is bigger than a political party

    The United Progressive Party (UPP) of Dominica has issued a forceful statement endorsing widespread public opposition to mining activities in the Deux Branches area of St. Andrew Parish. Party leadership has aligned with residents from the Kalinago Territory, Concord, Marigot, and surrounding communities who are raising alarms about the project’s potential consequences.

    According to the UPP, the mining operations present substantial dangers to public health and ecological stability, particularly for populations relying on local waterways for daily subsistence and economic activities. The party’s communiqué emphasized that these activities violate fundamental principles of free, prior, and informed consent for the Kalinago community, thereby challenging the project’s legal legitimacy and procedural integrity.

    The political organization cited an international petition that has garnered over 3,000 signatures as evidence of growing civic apprehension. This collective action reflects deepening unease about the project’s environmental and social implications.

    The UPP outlined multiple ecological threats associated with the mining venture, including:
    – Irreversible harm to natural habitats and biodiversity
    – Significant soil erosion and land degradation
    – Contamination of water resources and disruption of hydrological systems
    – Air quality deterioration due to particulate matter
    – Loss of fertile agricultural land compromising food security
    – Destruction of scenic landscapes vital to tourism
    – Increased landslide risks and damage to marine ecosystems

    Asserting that Dominica’s ‘Nature Island’ identity represents both an international brand and a intergenerational responsibility, the UPP insisted that any development endangering this status must undergo exhaustive independent environmental impact assessments.

    The party contends that the current project appears to circumvent established domestic regulations and international environmental conventions. They have consequently demanded an immediate suspension of all extraction activities pending comprehensive review processes, meaningful community consultations, complete transparency regarding project objectives, and establishment of clear decision-making timelines incorporating public participation.

    “Environmental impact assessments exist for good reason – they provide critical information about potential harm, allow for public input, and ensure that development proceeds sustainably,” the UPP asserted in their statement.

    Concluding their position, the UPP framed the issue as transcending political affiliations, maintaining that Dominicans deserve governance prioritizing environmental stewardship, due process, and long-term national interests over immediate economic benefits. They urged authorities to avoid sacrificing the nation’s environmental legacy for expedient gains, advocating instead for development that is genuinely sustainable, thoroughly evaluated, and truly beneficial to the populace.

  • High Court rules in favour of Edison James against Magistrate Michael Laudat

    High Court rules in favour of Edison James against Magistrate Michael Laudat

    In a significant judicial development, former Dominican Prime Minister Edison James has secured a landmark High Court ruling affirming the violation of his constitutional rights by Magistrate Michael Laudat. The case stemmed from James’ incarceration without a bail hearing during ongoing legal proceedings against opposition figures.

    The 80-year-old statesman, who led Dominica from 1995 to 2000, is currently facing incitement charges alongside United Workers Party (UWP) leaders Lennox Linton and Dr. Thomson Fontaine. The allegations concern events dating back to February 7, 2017, when prosecutors claim James encouraged actions potentially endangering public peace following demands for Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit’s resignation.

    During Friday’s proceedings, Magistrate Laudat ordered James detained pending possible bail consideration, resulting in his temporary placement in a holding cell at Roseau’s Magistrate’s Court. This action prompted the immediate constitutional challenge that led to the High Court’s intervention.

    James emphasized the principle-driven nature of his legal battle, stating, ‘This matter was never about monetary compensation but rather the fundamental protection of citizens’ rights. The law explicitly provides for bail consideration before deprivation of liberty, a right that was disregarded in my case.’

    The former prime minister expressed concern over judicial overreach, noting that the ruling serves as a crucial reminder of the judiciary’s obligation to uphold constitutional protections. ‘When judicial officers violate citizens’ rights, it not only causes individual harm but imposes significant costs on the state apparatus,’ James observed.

    Beyond the immediate legal context, James connected the case to broader governance issues, referencing ongoing debates about development projects including the controversial new airport initiative. He stressed that all governmental actions must operate within legal frameworks with appropriate public consultation.

    James was represented by Queen’s Counsel Thomas in the High Court proceedings, with Attorney Gildon Richards handling the magistrate’s court case. The legal team successfully argued that the detention without bail consideration constituted a fundamental rights violation.

    In a related development, James addressed separate ongoing litigation regarding quarry operations near his Korsha property. Having previously obtained an interim order limiting operational hours of a crushing plant due to residential disruption, James has now filed for judicial notice of a newly installed crusher in Stonefield that contradicts claims about the Korsha facility’s uniqueness.

    ‘This action seeks not to impede development but to mitigate the nuisance of industrial operations immediately adjacent to residential property,’ James clarified. ‘We await the court’s determination on achieving reasonable balance between development and residential rights.’

  • Police investigate fatal bike crash

    Police investigate fatal bike crash

    Dominican authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into a devastating road traffic incident that resulted in the death of Ken Joseph, a resident of Kingshill. The tragic event unfolded on the evening of Saturday, December 6, 2025, in close proximity to the Ocean Edge Oasis Hotel.

    Preliminary reports from law enforcement indicate that Mr. Joseph was traveling as the pillion passenger on a motorcycle operated by Salim Khalid Green when the collision occurred. Emergency services promptly transported both individuals to the Dominica-China Friendship Hospital (DCFH) for urgent medical attention.

    Tragically, medical professionals at the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Department pronounced Mr. Joseph deceased upon arrival. The motorcycle’s operator, Mr. Green, sustained severe injuries and was immediately transferred to the Intensive Care Unit, where he remains in critical condition under close medical supervision.

    Traffic safety officials have cordoned off the accident scene for forensic analysis as they work to determine the precise circumstances that led to this fatal collision. The investigation will examine multiple factors including road conditions, vehicle mechanics, and potential contributing elements to understand the complete sequence of events.

    This incident has sparked renewed conversations within the community regarding road safety measures and the vulnerabilities associated with motorcycle transportation. Local authorities are expected to review safety protocols in the aftermath of this tragedy.

  • Halo Foundation Teams Up With Regional Partners to Send Relief Supplies to Jamaica After Hurricane Melissa

    Halo Foundation Teams Up With Regional Partners to Send Relief Supplies to Jamaica After Hurricane Melissa

    In a powerful demonstration of cross-sector solidarity, The Halo Foundation has joined forces with Harmony for Humanity and The Salvation Army to orchestrate a major relief operation for Jamaica following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa. This strategic partnership highlights a unified approach to addressing humanitarian crises by delivering essential supplies to the most affected communities.

    Dr. Onika Campbell-Rowe, speaking at the official handover ceremony, characterized the collaboration as a manifestation of a common purpose to restore hope and dignity through tangible support. The initiative, she noted, represents more than material aid—it signifies a profound commitment to standing with vulnerable populations during their most challenging times.

    Major Pierre of The Salvation Army extended heartfelt appreciation to Her Excellency Lady Williams for her sustained generosity and regional advocacy. He acknowledged that while the hurricane’s impact has been widespread, the contributed resources will serve as fundamental building blocks for Jamaica’s recovery journey, enabling both reconstruction and community reunification efforts.

    The Foundation is now amplifying its call to action, urging both private citizens and institutional donors to sustain their support as Jamaican communities navigate the long path toward normalcy and full recovery.