A Belize Coast Guard officer, Eusabio Espinoza, is under intense scrutiny following allegations of assaulting a 43-year-old laborer in Orange Walk. The incident, which occurred around 3 a.m. on Sunday on Progress Street, involved Espinoza reportedly using a Glock 19 pistol, a weapon not issued by the Coast Guard, to strike the victim. Espinoza fled the scene but was later apprehended by authorities. The victim is now demanding justice for the attack. This case has drawn significant attention, especially as Espinoza had recently accused the Northern Regional Hospital of negligence in the death of his 92-year-old father. Coast Guard Commandant Rear Admiral Elton Bennett confirmed that Espinoza is currently on active duty while awaiting the charge sheet, which will trigger an internal administrative process. Bennett emphasized that once the charge sheet is received, the Coast Guard will determine the appropriate disciplinary actions, separate from any criminal charges Espinoza may face.
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Nicaraguan Surgeon Cleared After No-Case Ruling
In a significant legal development, Nicaraguan surgeon Dr. Carlos Soborio Coze has been exonerated after a Belize court dismissed the charges against him. The 51-year-old general surgeon, previously employed at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (K.H.M.H.), was accused of administering a harmful substance to a colleague during a social event. However, Chief Magistrate upheld a ‘no case’ submission presented by Coze’s attorney, Dickie Bradley, citing insufficient evidence to support the prosecution’s claims. The court highlighted critical inconsistencies in witness testimonies, unresolved questions regarding video evidence, and the absence of a definitive connection between the substance and the accused. Without concrete proof of administration, the charges were deemed unsustainable. Following the ruling, Dr. Coze was released from custody on Monday afternoon, marking the end of a contentious legal battle.
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Nestor Mendez Returns as Belize’s OAS Representative
Belize has reinstated a seasoned diplomat to its representation at the Organization of American States (OAS). Nestor Mendez, who previously held the position of Assistant Secretary General for ten years, has officially resumed his role as Belize’s Permanent Representative to the OAS. The credential presentation ceremony took place in Washington, D.C., where Mendez expressed his renewed commitment to the organization, emphasizing its critical role in fostering peace, dialogue, and development across the Americas. Secretary General Albert Ramdin warmly welcomed Mendez back, highlighting the constructive contributions he made during his prior tenure. This reappointment marks Mendez’s second stint representing Belize at the OAS, underscoring his extensive experience and dedication to regional diplomacy.
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A Baby’s Fight to Survive, Celebrating World Prematurity Day
On November 17, 2025, the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) was adorned in purple to mark World Prematurity Day, a global observance honoring the strength of premature infants and their families. The event highlighted the remarkable journeys of babies who have overcome immense challenges, showcasing their resilience and the unwavering support of healthcare professionals. Among the stories shared was that of Jonathan Villanueva, who, two years ago, weighed just 1.5 pounds when born at six months. His father, Jonathan Villanueva Sr., recounted the harrowing experience of watching his son fight for survival in the NICU. Despite ongoing health complications, Jonathan’s progress has been a source of inspiration for his family. The hospital’s dedicated staff, particularly the NICU nurses, played a pivotal role in his recovery. Rocio Brown, a NICU nurse, emphasized the comprehensive care provided to these vulnerable infants, from monitoring vital signs to ensuring their gradual transition off ventilators. Another story of triumph was that of eight-month-old Avyannah Slusher, who spent a month in the NICU. Her mother, Nia Thompson, expressed profound gratitude for the hospital’s compassionate care. The NICU operates on three levels, with Level 3 catering to the most critical cases. Nurse Brown described the emotional reward of seeing babies thrive and return home. Currently, 17 infants remain in the NICU, each fighting for a chance at a future. World Prematurity Day serves as a reminder of the importance of specialized care and the resilience of these tiny warriors.
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222nd of Vertières : Official ceremony (video)
On November 18, 2025, Haiti marked the 222nd anniversary of the Battle of Vertières with an official ceremony at the Villa d’Accueil. Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, alongside Laurent Saint Cyr, President pro tempore and Coordinator of the Transition Council, led the commemorative activities. The event was attended by government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, civil service representatives, and high-ranking military and police commanders. The ceremony honored the heroes of 1803, whose courage and unity secured Haiti’s freedom, dignity, and sovereignty. A floral tribute was laid at the Museum of the Haitian National Pantheon (MUPANAH) in Champ de Mars, symbolizing respect for the ancestors who fought for the nation’s independence. In his address, Prime Minister Fils-Aimé emphasized the historical significance of Vertières as a moral compass for Haiti, inspiring efforts to modernize the Armed Forces (FAd’H) and ensure national security. Laurent Saint-Cyr echoed this sentiment, calling for unity and dialogue to address contemporary challenges, including gang violence and political instability. He urged all stakeholders to participate in the electoral process, framing it as a continuation of the ancestors’ vision for a free and stable Haiti.
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IMF projects 2026 economic acceleration for the Dominican Republic
SANTO DOMINGO – The International Monetary Fund has concluded its Article IV consultation for the Dominican Republic, delivering a broadly positive assessment of the nation’s economic trajectory through 2025. While acknowledging a recent growth deceleration attributed to global financial tightening and worldwide uncertainty, the Fund projects a robust recovery with growth accelerating to 4.5% in 2026, nearing the country’s long-term potential of approximately 5%.
The IMF’s preliminary findings highlight the Dominican Republic’s strong economic fundamentals, which include manageable risks and significant policy flexibility to counteract adverse scenarios. This resilience has been bolstered by expansive fiscal and monetary policies that have stimulated a gradual rebound in key sectors. Notably, credit activity, export volumes, and the vital tourism industry have all demonstrated strengthened performance. Inflation remains well-contained, with an estimated average of 3.7% for the year 2025.
External sector stability is another cornerstone of the assessment. The current account deficit is projected to hold steady at around 2.5% of GDP, a level deemed sustainable as it is fully financed by robust foreign direct investment flows, signaling enduring investor confidence.
Despite a risk profile where external challenges—including volatile financial conditions and vulnerability to climate events—currently outweigh domestic positives, the IMF asserts the country is well-equipped to handle potential shocks. This capacity stems from substantial international reserves, a stable banking sector, and the existence of fiscal space for countercyclical measures.
The consultation placed significant emphasis on the critical need for structural reforms. Key recommendations include advancing a comprehensive tax reform designed to boost government revenues by rationalizing generalized subsidies, all while safeguarding essential social spending. The adoption of a medium-term revenue strategy was advised as a framework for broader fiscal modernization.
Furthermore, the IMF stressed the urgency of fully implementing the national Electricity Pact to reduce substantial sector losses and alleviate fiscal pressures. The Fund also advocated for enhanced governance, labor market flexibility, and social security reforms aligned with the country’s Meta 2036 development plan. Increased public investment in infrastructure, education, and healthcare was identified as vital for fostering more inclusive and competitive growth.
On monetary policy, the Central Bank’s approach was deemed appropriate. The IMF recommended maintaining exchange rate flexibility, limiting foreign exchange interventions to episodes of severe market disruption, and strengthening the monetary transmission mechanism while gradually phasing out extraordinary liquidity support introduced during past crises.
The financial system was recognized as sound with low systemic risk. The IMF encouraged authorities to continue bolstering regulatory and supervisory frameworks, fully implement Basel II and III capital standards, and further enhance policies to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.
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OPINION: The Shameful Erosion of Dignity in Our Public Life: A Call to End Toxic Political Culture
The recent actions of our Prime Minister have highlighted a troubling decline in the quality of public discourse within our nation. Attempts to justify his behavior as mere ‘political jest’ or ‘Caribbean tradition’ are not only misguided but represent a moral abdication that must be unequivocally rejected. Framing this as ‘satire’ consistent with our political culture deliberately ignores the stark distinction between harmless political banter and the use of the highest office to demean and humiliate a woman by focusing on her body. This is not clever commentary; it is outright bullying. My stance is not partisan but a universal call to address and rectify a toxic and destructive culture. Both the UPP and other political entities have been guilty of similar behavior, and my condemnation is directed at the culture itself. To argue that the Prime Minister is not targeting women because he is ‘confrontational with all opponents’ is to deliberately overlook the gendered nature of his attack. When male opponents are critiqued on policy or competence, but female opponents are targeted based on their appearance, it is undeniably misogynistic. Excusing this behavior by citing the ‘high-pressure environment’ of politics or claiming it was seen as ‘political ribbing’ by his supporters is an attempt to normalize toxicity. I am justified in demanding better from our leader. This incident, which diverted attention from a serious issue—the multi-million dollar vehicle scandal—occurred while the opposition was calling for transparency and accountability. The Prime Minister’s defensive, aggressive, and unapologetic tone throughout this saga has been consistent. Particularly troubling was the spectacle of women ‘standing with MP Maria Browne’ against a call for an inquiry into her ministry, coinciding with the Prime Minister’s shameful post. What were these women standing for? Good governance and the accountability the Prime Minister claims to champion would dictate that an inquiry is the right course of action. This ‘stand’ was, by definition, a contradiction. I am left to wonder if these women know something that needs to be kept hidden, prompting their premature support for the Minister. Even more concerning was the presence of the Minister, her husband, and children during this counter-protest. Was the Prime Minister there in his personal capacity as a husband or as the head of government? His presence, regardless of capacity, elevated the event, transforming a matter of departmental accountability into a dramatic political spectacle framed as a personal attack on a family. This strategy blurs the lines between governance and personal persecution, making it harder for the public to demand institutional oversight. This selective outrage, concentrated in a single news cycle, reveals a deep moral flaw in our community’s political compass: protection and respect are granted based on party affiliation, not shared gender or human dignity. The message this sends to our girls is clear and cruel: if you dare to lead or disagree, your appearance will be weaponized. As the global theme for the upcoming 16 Days of Activism is to ‘Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls,’ our leader is modeling the very behavior we should be campaigning against. Our community is better than this base and vulgar spectacle. I must reject the low standards of apologists and the deafening silence of those in power who privately disagree but are too afraid to speak. Their silence is tacit approval and self-preservation, allowing this toxic culture to thrive. We must demand that our leaders, regardless of party, model integrity, not juvenile rage. The future of our nation’s character depends on it.
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Tourist taxi drivers announce protest against Intrant measures
The Dominican Confederation of Tourist Taxi Drivers (Codotatur) has announced plans to stage street protests in response to the National Institute of Transit and Land Transportation (Intrant) granting tourist licenses to drivers allegedly operating illegally in Arroyo Barril (Samaná) and Bayahibe (La Romana). Codotatur president Santiago Zamora accused Intrant of violating Law 63-17 by issuing these licenses without adhering to the legally mandated procedures. He claimed that the institution bypassed proper protocols to favor undisclosed interests tied to its director. This week, the union intends to file a formal complaint against the decision, which they argue jeopardizes the livelihoods of long-standing licensed drivers. Zamora emphasized that Codotatur members have been operating for over four decades, paying taxes, complying with regulations, and delivering safe, high-quality services. Despite submitting all necessary documentation for license renewals more than three years ago, they have yet to receive their licenses, while so-called ‘pirate’ drivers have allegedly been granted permits. Zamora also highlighted the contradiction between the Ministry of Tourism’s crackdown on unlicensed taxis and Intrant’s alleged support for them. Codotatur has alerted its members and is prepared to block major tourist routes if their demands are not met.
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Senator George Says Antigua’s Debt Remains Manageable as Country Targets 60% by 2035
Senator Dwayne George has affirmed that Antigua and Barbuda’s debt situation remains stable and is poised for improvement, despite ongoing global and climate-related challenges. During an appearance on ABS’s ‘Government in Motion,’ George revealed that the country’s debt-to-GDP ratio currently stands at approximately 62 percent, with projections indicating a slight decline to around 60 percent by 2035. ‘Our debt-to-GDP is about 62 percent, and by 2035 we will be at about 60 percent,’ George stated optimistically. ‘That’s lovely. We’re doing quite fine.’
The government services approximately $65 million in debt each month, with total monthly financial obligations reaching roughly $89 million. However, George emphasized that the overall financial outlook remains manageable. This is largely due to the administration’s strategic shift from short-term borrowing to securing longer-term, lower-interest financing. ‘We want cheaper financing and long-term financing because that helps ease the pressure,’ he explained.
George’s remarks were made in the context of recent discussions with officials from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. During these engagements, Antigua and Barbuda, alongside other small states, highlighted the economic strain caused by frequent external shocks. These conversations underscored the urgent need for better-structured funding mechanisms that acknowledge the unique vulnerabilities of small island economies. ‘We are exposed to shocks almost every cycle,’ George noted. ‘It’s why we continue to argue for concessional financing and mechanisms that recognise our realities.’
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Minister Ferguson Back In PM’s Good Graces?
In a surprising turn of events, Prime Minister John Briceño has reinstated Rodwell Ferguson to the Belizean Cabinet, less than a week after a significant reshuffle. Ferguson, who previously served as Minister of Transport from 2020 to 2025, has been appointed as the new Minister of Agriculture, Food Security, and New Growth Industries. This decision comes after the removal of Jose Abelardo Mai, who was embroiled in controversy linked to unspecified activities. Ferguson’s reappointment has sparked debate, particularly due to his track record of replacing three CEOs during his tenure in Transport. However, Briceño has expressed unwavering confidence in Ferguson’s capabilities. The Prime Minister highlighted Ferguson’s extensive political experience, including his role as deputy leader of the party and his consistent electoral support since 2003. Briceño emphasized Ferguson’s deep connection to rural communities, stating that his background provides a unique understanding of the challenges faced by farmers and agricultural-dependent populations. To bolster Ferguson’s efforts, Briceño assured that a robust team of advisors, including the ministry’s CEO and technical officers, would support him in driving Belize’s agricultural growth. This move underscores Briceño’s strategy of leveraging experienced leaders to address critical national issues.