Carib Scope

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  • Government Approves National Holiday to Commemorate Buckley’s Uprising from 2027

    Government Approves National Holiday to Commemorate Buckley’s Uprising from 2027

    In a landmark decision affirming national heritage, the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis has officially designated January 28 as an annual national holiday commemorating the historic Buckley’s Uprising. The announcement, made public on January 29, 2026, establishes the observance beginning January 28, 2027, permanently memorializing one of the Caribbean’s most significant labor movements.

    During the 91st Anniversary Commemoration at Buckley’s Estate, Hon. Konris Maynard, Minister of Public Infrastructure and elected representative for St. Christopher #3, revealed the Cabinet’s approval under Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew’s leadership. The decision formalizes decades of advocacy by cultural custodians and community leaders who have preserved the memory of the 1935 uprising.

    Prime Minister Drew characterized the uprising as both a national turning point and an international catalyst for liberation movements. ‘The events here sent shockwaves across the Caribbean and to Africa,’ Drew stated during commemorative ceremonies. ‘This holiday ensures future generations understand the sacrifices made for the rights we enjoy today.’

    The government positions this recognition as part of broader initiatives to strengthen historical awareness and national identity. Minister Maynard described the estate as ‘hallowed ground’ where events ‘helped shape Caribbean democracy and laid foundations for labor rights and social reform.’

    Complementing the holiday designation, the government is advancing multiple preservation efforts including a monument construction at Buckley’s Estate, curriculum integration in national education programs, and expanded public commemoration activities. These measures collectively aim to enshrine the uprising’s legacy in the nation’s consciousness while promoting values of social justice, equality, and unity that continue guiding the Federation’s development.

  • Electoral Office confirms system breach; Police say no report received

    Electoral Office confirms system breach; Police say no report received

    BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – Electoral authorities in St. Kitts have confirmed a significant cybersecurity incident involving unauthorized remote access to their computer systems, which reportedly persisted for several months before detection. The breach at the Central Street, Basseterre facility prompted immediate intervention from the Information Technology Department, which successfully disabled the illicit access channels.

    According to an official statement released through the St. Kitts Information Service, preliminary investigations suggest that perpetrators extracted electoral lists and related information. Despite this access, initial assessments indicate no compromise, alteration, or corruption of the Voter Registers occurred during the incident.

    The Electoral Office has engaged the White Collar Crime Unit of the Royal Saint Christopher and Nevis Police Force to support their investigation. However, initial police communications revealed contradictory information, with authorities initially stating they had not received any formal report—a claim later retracted in an editor’s note confirming the report had indeed been filed and was under investigation.

    Electoral officials emphasized their commitment to pursuing legal action against those responsible, vowing that ‘no stone will be left unturned’ in the investigation. The office urged political parties and the public to rely exclusively on officially published electoral lists distributed in accordance with established legal frameworks.

    Several critical questions remain unanswered regarding the breach’s timeline, responsibility for system security, potential personnel changes, and specific detection methods. The incident has raised concerns about electoral integrity safeguards and the protection of sensitive voter information in the digital age.

  • Column: Kentering noodzakelijk in beoefening voetbal

    Column: Kentering noodzakelijk in beoefening voetbal

    Suriname’s domestic football landscape remains entrenched in a concerning downward trajectory despite the establishment of the Suriname Major League (SML). Both men’s and women’s competitions continue to demonstrate subpar quality, with no measurable improvement since the league’s professional implementation. The fundamental issue lies in the failure of local clubs to evolve alongside the SML framework, maintaining outdated operational models that hinder progress.

    Regional competitive opportunities have expanded significantly, yet Surinamese clubs risk embarrassment in international matchups without substantial organizational reform. The concept of professional competition serves as a growth vehicle rather than an end goal—a distinction seemingly lost on many clubs content with local mediocrity. The SML’s success ultimately depends on clubs recognizing their need to transform into professionally structured entities capable of matching the league’s developmental vision.

    Stadium attendance cannot remain solely the league’s responsibility. Each club must develop strategic plans to enhance football as a marketable product, establishing professional support structures that extend beyond field performance. Decision-making must transition from single-owner dominance to specialized management teams capable of operating clubs as sustainable businesses. Like any commercial enterprise, football clubs must continuously improve their product to justify consumer investment.

    Elevating Surinamese football requires shared responsibility among all stakeholders. Growth must facilitate full-time professional employment, attract sponsor investment, and ultimately establish organizational and financial independence. The current stagnation demands immediate, transformative action across the entire football ecosystem to preserve the league’s viability and secure its future.

  • Protest in Santiago rejects mining in the Cordillera Septentrional

    Protest in Santiago rejects mining in the Cordillera Septentrional

    SANTIAGO, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC – A significant grassroots mobilization dubbed ‘United We Are More’ culminated in a massive protest march through Santiago on Wednesday, demonstrating widespread community resistance against purported mining initiatives in the ecologically sensitive Northern Mountain Range (Cordillera Septentrional). The demonstration united residents from multiple municipal districts including Río Grande, San Francisco de Jacagua, Pedro García, and Yásica Arriba, alongside religious authorities and civil society representatives.

    The protest, organized as a vehicular caravan, commenced in Canabacoa and proceeded along segments of the Duarte Highway before concluding at the Monument to the Heroes of Restoration. Father Nino Ramos, addressing participants, issued a stark warning regarding mining’s potential consequences, highlighting risks to rural livelihoods through environmental degradation, water contamination, widespread deforestation, and forced community displacement. He emphasized the demonstration symbolized resolute opposition to extractive industries in the region.

    This civic action garnered support from clergy members, environmental coalitions, neighborhood associations, and agricultural collectives. The protest also expressed solidarity with communities in San Juan de la Maguana and Restauración facing analogous concerns about mining expansion.

    Despite protesters’ assertions that mining operations pose existential threats to local ecosystems and communities, President Luis Abinader has publicly denied the existence of any mining contracts or development plans for the Northern Mountain Range. Echoing this position, Energy and Mines Minister Joel Santos clarified that activities conducted in the region have been exclusively exploratory, emphasizing no exploitation plans exist and that all operations occur under state oversight with strict adherence to environmental protocols and legal frameworks.

  • Removing obstacles from thought and unleashing al the Forces of creation

    Removing obstacles from thought and unleashing al the Forces of creation

    In a series of extraordinary plenary sessions held across three Cuban provinces on Wednesday, top Communist Party officials outlined an ambitious agenda focused on economic transformation and systemic reform. The meetings in Las Tunas, Camagüey, and Ciego de Ávila featured direct participation from Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, First Secretary of the Central Committee, and Roberto Morales Ojeda, Political Bureau member and Secretary of Organization.

    The gatherings emphasized concrete measures to overcome economic challenges through increased production efficiency, export expansion, and reduced dependency on imports. Officials presented detailed assessments of each province’s 2025 accomplishments while establishing specific commitments for 2026, with particular focus on municipal self-sufficiency as a cornerstone for national progress.

    In Las Tunas, provincial First Secretary Osbel Lorenzo Rodríguez detailed 228 defined commitments aimed at transforming the region’s economic landscape. These include reducing budget deficits, boosting export revenues, and enhancing food production capabilities. The province also committed to optimizing business structures, addressing critical water availability issues, and expanding renewable energy implementation.

    Camagüey’s session revealed significant progress in deficit reduction, with over 90% of current commitments targeting economic and productive spheres. The meeting highlighted challenging objectives including restructuring loss-making enterprises and continuing land redistribution programs.

    Ciego de Ávila’s discussions centered on agricultural production improvements, with emphasis on allocating land to capable cultivators and leveraging scientific innovation. The province, recognized for its outstanding performance in 2024 and selection as host for the National Commemoration of July 26th in 2025, was urged to build upon its established talent and experience.

    Throughout all sessions, officials stressed the necessity of mindset transformation, urging party members to move beyond attributing shortcomings solely to external factors like the U.S. embargo. Instead, they emphasized internal accountability, proactive problem-solving, and disciplined implementation of realistic plans. The leadership called for strengthened cohesion between political and mass organizations, replication of successful practices, and enhanced communication with citizens to collectively address national challenges.

  • To the Apostle of Independence, the tribute of his people

    To the Apostle of Independence, the tribute of his people

    SANTIAGO DE CUBA – The José Martí Mausoleum at Santa Ifigenia Heritage Cemetery became the focal point of national reverence as Cubans from all generations assembled to commemorate the 173rd anniversary of their National Hero’s birth. The solemn ceremony featured precise military protocols, including an honor guard rotation and ceremonial artillery salutes, creating an atmosphere of profound historical significance.

    In a demonstration of unified national respect, floral tributes arrived from three distinguished sources: Army General Raúl Castro Ruz, leader of the Cuban Revolution; Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, First Secretary of the Communist Party Central Committee and President of the Republic; and the collective Cuban populace. Students from the Camilo Cienfuegos Military School executed the ceremonial placement of these offerings with precision, accompanied by the poignant melody of ‘Single Verses.’

    The commemorative activities extended beyond Martí’s resting place to include tributes at the monuments of foundational national figures: Carlos Manuel de Céspedes, Mariana Grajales, and the late Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro Ruz, recognized as Martí’s most devoted disciple. These gestures highlighted the continuous revolutionary lineage that shapes contemporary Cuban identity.

    University student Javier Borges Nápoles articulated the enduring relevance of Martí’s ideology, noting: ‘Martí’s warning about the seven-league giant remains pertinent today as we face direct threats. Our commitment remains unwavering in defending our independence, achieved through over a century of struggle and sacrifice.’

    The ceremony was presided over by Beatriz Johnson Urrutia, Central Committee member and Provincial First Secretary, alongside high-ranking government officials, military commanders, and representatives from political and social organizations. The traditional noon artillery salute—21 rounds fired simultaneously from Santa Ifigenia and Havana’s San Carlos de la Cabaña Fortress—provided a powerful auditory homage to Cuba’s most universal historical figure.

  • Bouva: Suriname vriend van allen, vijand van niemand

    Bouva: Suriname vriend van allen, vijand van niemand

    Foreign Minister Melvin Bouva outlined Suriname’s ambitious foreign policy agenda for 2026 during a comprehensive briefing with diplomatic corps representatives in Paramaribo on Wednesday. The gathering brought together heads of diplomatic missions, consuls-general, and international organization representatives for a strategic overview of the nation’s governmental priorities.

    Minister Bouva articulated Suriname’s distinctive diplomatic philosophy, positioning the South American nation as “a friend to all and enemy to none” while emphasizing result-oriented diplomacy as the cornerstone of international engagement. The foreign policy approach prioritizes economic cooperation and strengthening global partnerships through practical outcomes rather than ideological alignment.

    The year 2026 holds particular significance as Suriname prepares to celebrate fifty years of diplomatic relations with more than twenty nations worldwide. Minister Bouva announced the establishment of joint commissions with several key partners, including India, Indonesia, and South Korea, signaling deepened bilateral cooperation. He particularly highlighted the strategic importance of collaboration with neighboring Guyana, specifically mentioning ongoing discussions regarding the landmark Corantijn River Bridge project.

    Environmental leadership emerged as a central theme, with Bouva emphasizing Suriname’s unique status as a carbon-negative ‘Green Nation’ and its upcoming prominent role within CARICOM. The nation is slated to assume chairmanship of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) before transitioning to incoming chair of CARICOM government leaders later in the year.

    Economic diversification featured prominently in the minister’s address, with identified opportunities spanning offshore oil and gas industries alongside agricultural development, tourism expansion, educational advancement, and healthcare improvement. Bouva reaffirmed Suriname’s commitment to multilateral cooperation and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while also confirming preparations for participation in EXPO 2027 in Belgrade.

    The minister concluded by calling for enhanced cooperation and more visible engagement from the diplomatic community within Suriname. He announced government plans to establish regular diplomatic activities, including an annual Diplomatic Week, designed to systematically strengthen international relationships through structured engagement platforms.

  • BTL Appeals to ‘National Interest’ Amid Pushback

    BTL Appeals to ‘National Interest’ Amid Pushback

    BELIZE CITY – Amid escalating controversy surrounding Belize Telemedia Limited’s proposed acquisition of Speednet, the telecommunications giant is invoking national interest arguments to justify the merger while confronting substantial opposition from multiple sectors. The company now faces coordinated resistance from labor unions, political representatives, and public demonstrators who question whether the corporate assurances align with tangible benefits for the nation.

    In response to mounting criticism, BTL officials have issued statements acknowledging public concerns while emphasizing that no definitive decision has been finalized. The corporation maintains that the proposed transaction remains under exhaustive evaluation and must successfully navigate numerous legal and regulatory approvals before implementation.

    BTL’s advocacy centers on projected advantages including enhanced telecommunications infrastructure, accelerated internet connectivity, expanded service accessibility, and significant advancement of Belize’s digital transformation agenda. Company representatives have highlighted these potential benefits as crucial for national development.

    However, skepticism persists among stakeholders demanding comprehensive disclosure regarding financial implications, potential market risks, competitive safeguards, and ultimate cost distribution. Critics characterize BTL’s promises as superficially appealing but substantively vague, requiring more detailed justification beyond rhetorical commitments.

    The telecommunications provider references extensive consultation efforts with employees, union representatives, opposition parties, business associations, regulatory bodies, and the Public Utilities Commission as evidence of transparent engagement. Despite these outreach initiatives, many citizens maintain that genuine transparency necessitates full financial disclosure rather than selective private meetings.

    Addressing pricing concerns, BTL cites an independent valuation conducted by Moore Belize adhering to international standards. The company further points to substantial investments in national infrastructure, educational initiatives, and community programs as demonstration of corporate commitment.

    Additional guarantees include employment protection for existing staff, uninterrupted service continuity, price stability commitments, and rigorous regulatory supervision. Nevertheless, pressing questions remain regarding duration of price controls, competitive market preservation, and regulatory intervention protocols should the consolidated entity establish market dominance.

    BTL asserts that the Public Utilities Commission will retain ultimate authority over approval proceedings, with national interests positioned as the central consideration. The public response indicates demand for comprehensive disclosure and concrete justification extending beyond corporate press statements.

  • BTL–Speednet Deal Under Fire from Streets to Senate

    BTL–Speednet Deal Under Fire from Streets to Senate

    A proposed $80 million acquisition of Speednet by Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL) has triggered significant public and political opposition, creating a contentious national debate about market competition and regulatory oversight. The controversy escalated dramatically on Tuesday when supporters of the United Democratic Party (UDP) and members of the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) organized protests outside BTL’s headquarters, with demonstrations occasionally turning chaotic.

  • PUC’s Turn: Regulator Pressed for Swift Merger Review

    PUC’s Turn: Regulator Pressed for Swift Merger Review

    BELIZE CITY – The proposed merger between telecommunications providers BTL and Speednet has placed the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) under significant scrutiny as the regulatory body faces mounting pressure to conduct an efficient review process. According to legal mandates, the PUC must thoroughly evaluate whether the consolidation complies with statutory requirements, assesses competitive implications, and safeguards consumer interests.

    Area Representative for Caribbean Shores, Kareem Musa, emphasized the commission’s critical role in navigating the complex regulatory landscape. “As the regulator, it is important for them to navigate through this process very efficiently,” stated Musa, who also serves as a government minister. He revealed that BTL’s legal team maintains confidence in their standing, anticipating minimal opposition or legal challenges to the proposed merger.

    The consolidation would effectively return Belize’s telecommunications market to a single service provider structure, raising concerns among various stakeholder groups. When questioned about public opposition expressed by organizations including the Chamber of Commerce and National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB), Minister Musa stressed the necessity of incorporating diverse perspectives into the final decision-making process.

    “The board of directors must consider all angles and views, even though there are dissenting views that have been expressed,” Musa commented. “It cannot just be that you only hear BTL’s perspectives or what they think will be profitable for the country or better for consumers. We must also factor in all of these dissenting views in coming to a decision.”

    The PUC’s evaluation will determine whether the merger proceeds, marking a pivotal moment for Belize’s telecommunications landscape and potentially reshaping market competition for the foreseeable future.