President Irfaan Ali has firmly rejected claims that his People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) exploited personal data from cash grant recipients for election campaigning. The allegations stem from a report by the European Union Election Observation Mission (EUEOM), which highlighted concerns over the misuse of government-held data during the September 1 general and regional elections. In a Facebook Live commentary, President Ali acknowledged that all political parties, not just the incumbent, had made personalized calls to beneficiaries. However, he neither confirmed nor denied his party’s involvement in using the data for soliciting votes. The EUEOM report emphasized the need to operationalize the 2023 Data Protection Act to prevent such practices in the future, citing politically motivated doxing and misuse of personal data for electoral gains. President Ali also criticized the report for its perceived bias and lack of analysis, arguing that it primarily reflected complaints from opposition parties. He defended his government’s campaign focus on delivering past promises, such as infrastructure projects and subsidies, and called for a fair evaluation of the report’s narratives. Additionally, he mentioned that election campaign financing reforms would be addressed through the Constitutional Reform process, which the EUEOM report allegedly overlooked.
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Security : Bahamian military visit to Haiti
In a significant move to bolster regional security, Commodore Floyd Moxey, Commander of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF), led a high-level delegation to Haiti last week. The delegation included Jerusa Ali, Ambassador and Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Commander Julian Smith, the Chargé d’Affaires of the Bahamas Embassy in Haiti. Accompanied by additional Bahamian military personnel, the group joined the Gang Repression Force (FRG) operations, aiming to combat organized crime and restore stability in Haiti. They were warmly received by Godfrey Otunge, Force Commander, and Vladimir Paraison, Director General of the Haitian National Police (PNH).
Commodore Moxey reiterated the Bahamas’ unwavering commitment to the FRG mission, highlighting the deployment of a third Bahamian contingent. While the exact size of the contingent remains undisclosed, Moxey praised the FRG officers for their professionalism and resilience in the face of challenging operational conditions. He emphasized that Haiti’s security is intrinsically linked to the stability of the entire Caribbean region, citing risks such as human displacement, illicit arms trafficking, and transnational crime. ‘Haiti’s instability poses a threat to us all,’ Moxey stated.
Jerusa Ali expressed deep gratitude to the Haitian National Police and international partners from Kenya, Jamaica, El Salvador, Guatemala, and the Bahamas for their courage and teamwork. She underscored the Bahamas’ commitment to supporting Haiti through security, political engagement, and diplomacy. Ali also announced plans to open a new Chancery in Port-au-Prince, signaling the Bahamas’ long-term dedication to Haiti’s recovery. She highlighted the transition from the MMSS to the FRG under UN Security Council Resolution 2793 as a pivotal moment for regional collaboration.
In a joint address, Vladimir Paraison and Commander Otunge reaffirmed the FRG’s determination to dismantle gang networks, restore security, and protect the rights of the Haitian people. They vowed to prevent criminal groups from regaining influence and emphasized the importance of cooperation between Haitian authorities, local communities, and international partners. ‘Impunity is over,’ they declared, asserting that all resources are now aligned under a unified strategy to combat crime on land, sea, and air.
The Bahamian delegation concluded their visit by interacting with deployed troops at LSA1 before departing Haiti, leaving a strong message of solidarity and resolve.
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COVID cases rise alongside flu, RSV
Barbados is currently experiencing a significant increase in COVID-19 cases and other respiratory illnesses, according to Chief Medical Officer Dr. Kenneth George. Despite the surge, Dr. George confirmed on Wednesday that there are no plans to reintroduce mandatory mask-wearing. The Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the situation, particularly focusing on vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with compromised immune systems, who are being urged to take extra precautions. Dr. George explained that the rise in COVID-19 infections has contributed to the spread of other respiratory diseases, including influenza A, rhinovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This uptick aligns with the typical cold and flu season, which begins in November and extends into the early months of the following year. A doctor from a rural polyclinic reported that all 47 patients recently swabbed in a single community tested positive for COVID-19, highlighting the virus’s prevalence. Dr. George emphasized that while COVID-19 remains a concern, it is now ‘in the rear-view mirror,’ and the public has been educated on how to protect themselves. He stressed that specific precautions are necessary for high-risk individuals, but mask mandates will not be reinstated. Data from the Best-dos Santos Public Health Laboratory revealed a 23.8% positivity rate for respiratory illnesses among 2,100 samples tested this year, with cases ranging from infants to individuals in their 90s. The laboratory detected pathogens such as COVID-19, influenza A, and rhinovirus, with a notable increase in RSV cases among very young children. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
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Two technical failures disrupt Santo Domingo Metro service
The Santo Domingo Metro experienced two significant technical disruptions on Wednesday, causing partial service halts on Lines 1 and 2. The first incident occurred at approximately 7:30 a.m. at the María Montez station on Line 2, leading to a suspension of operations for over two hours. According to the Office for the Reorganization of Transport (OPRET), service was restored by 9:37 a.m. The disruption was attributed to a malfunctioning track switch, which impacted train arrivals and departures at the station. Later in the day, a second failure occurred shortly after 6:00 p.m. on Line 1, affecting the Mamá Tingó–Hermanas Mirabal section in Villa Mella. Operations were halted for more than an hour, with service resuming at 7:20 p.m. OPRET did not disclose the cause of this incident. Despite delays and overcrowding, authorities assured the public that neither event posed any safety risks to passengers. In response to the disruptions, OPRET Director Jhael Isa Tavárez announced the implementation of a comprehensive maintenance strategy, combining preventive, corrective, and predictive measures. This initiative is part of the ongoing construction of Line 2C. Tavárez clarified that the morning breakdown was not electrical but resulted from a loose connection caused by vibrations from nearby construction activities at María Montez.
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Ultrabewerkt voedsel vormt groeiend gezondheidsrisico wereldwijd
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are increasingly recognized as a significant threat to public health, prompting calls for urgent intervention from international experts. A comprehensive review of scientific studies highlights a dramatic shift in global dietary patterns, with fresh, unprocessed foods being replaced by cheap, heavily processed alternatives. This trend is linked to a heightened risk of chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and even depression. The review, conducted by 43 experts based on 104 long-term studies, identifies associations between UPFs and at least 12 health issues, including cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, and increased mortality. Examples of UPFs include sausages, chips, cookies, sodas, instant soups, ice cream, and many types of supermarket bread. The global consumption of these industrially manufactured products is rising rapidly, leading to poorer overall dietary quality due to excessive sugar, unhealthy fats, and insufficient fiber and protein. Professor Carlos Monteiro of the University of São Paulo, creator of the Nova classification system, emphasizes that UPFs are displacing fresh and minimally processed foods worldwide. Large international food corporations play a pivotal role in this shift, prioritizing profit, aggressive marketing, and political lobbying to avoid stricter health regulations. However, critics of the Nova classification argue that the degree of processing does not solely determine a product’s healthiness. Items like whole-grain bread, breakfast cereals, low-fat yogurt, fish sticks, and baby formula, classified as UPFs, still contain nutrients beneficial to a healthy diet. Statistician Kevin McConway cautions that the observed correlations do not establish causation, and further clinical studies are needed to identify specific components of UPFs contributing to disease. Researchers like Professor Jules Griffin also highlight the benefits of food processing and advocate for more research into its health impacts. Co-author Dr. Phillip Baker of the University of Sydney argues that despite gaps in evidence, immediate action is necessary, akin to global efforts against the tobacco industry. The food industry, meanwhile, maintains that UPFs can be part of a balanced diet, with the Food and Drink Federation noting improvements in recent years, including reduced sugar and salt content. The UK’s Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition has described the links between UPFs and adverse health effects as “concerning” but acknowledges uncertainty over whether processing or the unhealthy composition of these products is the primary cause. Current dietary advice remains unchanged: increase consumption of vegetables, fruits, and fiber while limiting sugar, salt, and saturated fats.
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Dominican exports total US$11.954 billion through October
SANTO DOMINGO – The Dominican Republic has demonstrated robust economic performance with exports reaching US$11.954 billion during the first ten months of the year, representing a significant 10% year-on-year increase. Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs Minister Víctor Bisonó announced these figures, characterizing the growth as evidence of a nation that “dares, innovates, and transforms perseverance into tangible progress.”
A particularly notable achievement was recorded in October, which witnessed the highest export volume for that month in over a decade, exceeding US$1.25 billion in overseas sales. Beyond traditional goods, the country is emerging as a powerful exporter of modern services. This sector has experienced explosive growth, with exports soaring to US$2.289 billion. This marks a 29% surge compared to the previous year and a staggering 175% expansion since 2019, underscoring a strategic shift towards a knowledge-based economy.
Minister Bisonó credited this success to the government’s strategic, long-term economic policy focused on global integration and sustainable development. This approach has positioned the country as a premier investment destination, capturing 30% of all foreign direct investment flowing into the Caribbean and Central American region. Bolstered by this momentum, the government confidently projects that foreign investment will hit an unprecedented US$5 billion by the close of the current fiscal year.
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Canada : Donation of 13 fire trucks and 10 ambulances
In a significant move to enhance Haiti’s emergency response capabilities, the Canadian Peace and Security Officer Training Association (CPSOTA), in collaboration with the Haitian government, concluded a 15-day training seminar on first aid and emergency response. The event, held on November 20, 2025, saw the participation of key Haitian officials, including Pierre Canisius Guignard, Director General of the Ministry of the Interior and Territorial Communities, Alfred Metellus, Minister of Economy and Finance, and Renand Aristide, Director General of the National Ambulance Center (CAN). Also present were the Mayors of Pétion-Ville and Delmas, along with numerous senior public administration officials.
The training aimed to improve the skills of personnel from the National Ambulance Center (CAN), the Haitian National Police (PNH), the Civil Protection Directorate (DGPC), and the fire department in paramedics, first aid, and various firefighting techniques. Participants were introduced to new methods to enhance their effectiveness in handling emergencies and disasters.
Pierre Canisius Guignard highlighted the importance of the training, stating that it would significantly strengthen the capabilities of emergency response organizations across the country, particularly in municipalities like Pétion-Ville, Delmas, Port-au-Prince, Tabarre, and Carrefour.
To mark the conclusion of the seminar, CPSOTA donated specialized equipment worth $3,125,000 USD, including 13 fully equipped fire trucks, 10 ambulances, and a container of miscellaneous equipment. This donation is expected to bolster Haiti’s emergency services and improve public safety.
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Former Senator Malaka Parker Rejoins the United Progressive Party
In a significant political development, former senator and prominent community activist Malaka Parker has announced her return to the United Progressive Party (UPP) after a two-year hiatus from active politics. Parker, who left the UPP following a contentious leadership dispute in 2016, emphasized her decision as a response to the urgent need for political renewal and accountability in Antigua and Barbuda. She criticized the current administration, the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP), for fostering what she described as a ‘decaying political culture’ marked by corruption, economic mismanagement, and public disillusionment. Parker highlighted the ABLP’s failure to deliver on its promises of economic prosperity, pointing to rising inequality, escalating living costs, and a bloated public sector as evidence of systemic failures. She called for a collective effort to rebuild the opposition, restore public trust, and champion inclusive, people-centered governance. Parker’s return to the UPP underscores her belief in the party’s potential to lead national renewal and address the pressing challenges facing the country. She urged citizens to join her in rejecting the current administration’s perceived disregard for public welfare and to work towards a brighter future for Antigua and Barbuda.
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Security : «The time of gangs is over» says Commander Otunge
In a bold declaration, Commander Godfrey Otunge of Haiti’s Gang Suppression Force (GSF) announced a significant shift in the nation’s security landscape. Otunge emphasized that the transformation from the MSSM to the GSF represents more than a mere rebranding—it is a comprehensive overhaul of Haiti’s security apparatus. This reorganization integrates the resources, personnel, and intelligence of all national forces under a unified mission: the eradication of gangs that have long plagued the country. Collaborating closely with the Haitian National Police (PNH) and the Armed Forces of Haiti (FAd’H), the GSF has implemented a robust, sustained security strategy. This includes targeted, intelligence-driven operations and persistent patrols in critical areas, aimed at dismantling gang networks and restoring public safety. Otunge underscored the mobilization of all operational assets—land, sea, and air—to achieve the clear objective of restoring peace and ensuring Haitians can live without fear. He dismissed recent gang threats as acts of desperation, signaling their decline. The joint forces are advancing relentlessly, disrupting networks, seizing weapons, and neutralizing armed elements. Otunge assured the Haitian people of the security forces’ unwavering commitment to dismantling terrorist networks and upholding the rule of law. He called for public cooperation, emphasizing that together, they are closing a dark chapter in Haiti’s history and paving the way for stability and peace.
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Mets name Dominican Gilbert Gómez first base and outfield coach
The New York Mets have made a significant addition to their Major League Baseball coaching roster by promoting Gilbert Gómez to the position of first base and outfield coach for the upcoming season. The organization highlighted Gómez’s exceptional leadership qualities, his unique ability to communicate effectively with emerging talent, and his contemporary approach to baseball instruction as key factors in their decision.
Gómez’s journey with the Mets organization began in 2009 when he was initially signed as a player. Demonstrating remarkable foresight, he transitioned from his playing career at just 25 years old to pursue coaching full-time. His ascent through the Mets’ developmental system has been nothing short of meteoric, with Gómez occupying critical roles including hitting coach, bench coach, and ultimately managerial positions.
The 2025 season marked a pinnacle achievement in Gómez’s coaching career when he guided the Brooklyn Cyclones to an unprecedented campaign. Under his leadership, the team secured a franchise-record 72 victories and maintained a perfect postseason record to claim the South Atlantic League championship. His expertise has been recognized on international stages as well, having managed MLB’s Breakout Game and served as assistant to Albert Pujols for the upcoming World Baseball Classic. Gómez previously contributed to the Dominican Republic’s bronze medal performance at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
In his native Dominican Republic, Gómez has made history with Tigres del Licey in the Dominican Winter League (LIDOM). During the 2023-24 season, he became the youngest manager in league history to secure a championship, joining an elite group of just seven Dominican managers who have won titles in their debut managerial year.