The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has initiated high-level discussions with the Saudi Fund for Development to advance the expansion and development of The University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus. These talks, led by MP Daryll Matthew, aim to outline the next phases of the campus’s transformation, which is central to the government’s vision of establishing it as a premier educational institution in the Eastern Caribbean. During the meeting, MP Matthew revealed the first architectural renderings of the proposed campus, describing it as a future landmark that will stand out as the most aesthetically impressive university in the region. The collaboration with the Saudi Fund underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure and fostering academic excellence. This initiative is expected to significantly boost the local economy and provide enhanced opportunities for students across the Caribbean.
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Independent Michael St Catherine to run again in Micoud North
Despite a crushing defeat in the previous general election, attorney Michael St Catherine has reentered the political arena, declaring his candidacy as an independent for the Micoud North constituency in the upcoming December 1, 2025, election. St Catherine made the announcement on November 11, emphasizing the need for change and improved representation in the region. In his statement, he criticized the current state of affairs, highlighting the lack of respect for workers and the inadequacies of inexperienced leaders. He urged constituents to embrace those with genuine intentions and proper preparation. St Catherine attributed his decision to run again to “divine inspiration” and widespread encouragement from supporters across the nation. He referenced his 15-point plan from the last election, stating that his campaign is already in motion and will soon be visible throughout the constituency. St Catherine expressed his commitment to creating job opportunities and improving the lives of Micoud residents. In the 2021 general election, he garnered only 28 votes, a stark contrast to the 1,731 votes secured by UWP candidate Gale Rigobert and the 2,283 votes won by SLP’s Jeremiah Norbert. St Catherine will face incumbent Jeremiah Norbert and UWP’s Elisha Norbert, both cousins, in the upcoming election. He called for an end to family disputes over power and a focus on the betterment of the community.
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Motorcycle Driving School Coming Soon
In response to a surge in road fatalities, Belize’s Ministry of Transport has announced plans to establish a specialized motorcycle driving school. The initiative comes after a particularly deadly weekend, where four lives were lost and several others injured in separate traffic accidents. The ministry aims to address the alarming trend of reckless motorcycle driving, particularly among young riders, by providing comprehensive training on safe operation and adherence to road safety laws. Chester Williams, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Transport, expressed deep concern over the persistent disregard for safety measures despite graphic media coverage of accidents. He emphasized the need for a multi-faceted approach, including legislative reforms, stricter enforcement, and targeted sensitization campaigns to foster a behavioral shift among the youth. The driving school, set to be operational by next year, will be managed by certified institutions that will also issue licenses to successful applicants. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to curbing road accidents and promoting safer driving practices.
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Major Cabinet Reshuffle Looms
In a significant move signaling strategic realignment within the government, a major Cabinet reshuffle is reportedly underway following a high-level meeting held on November 11, 2025. According to credible sources within the Cabinet, several key ministerial positions are set to undergo substantial changes. Henry Charles Usher is poised to take charge of the Home Affairs portfolio, while Kareem Musa is expected to transition to lead the Ministry of Immigration. Francis Fonseca, currently overseeing Immigration, is anticipated to return to the Ministry of Education, replacing Oscar Requena. Additionally, sources reveal that Jose Mai and Florencio Marin Jr. will also face portfolio adjustments, with Mai likely to relinquish his responsibilities for Enterprise, which includes oversight of Free Zones and Supplies Control. Further details regarding the reshuffle are expected to be disclosed in the coming days, as the government seeks to optimize its administrative framework.
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De wereldwijde status van de DEMOCRATIE
The 2025 Global State of Democracy Report, released on November 10, paints a concerning picture of the current state of democracy worldwide. The report highlights a climate of severe uncertainty, driven by political developments, particularly in the United States, which raise critical questions about democratic resilience and multilateralism. These trends are not isolated; globally, democracy is weakening. In 2024, 54% of the 94 countries studied experienced a decline in at least one democratic factor compared to their state five years prior. Only 55 countries (32%) showed improvement in at least one governance factor.
The report evaluates democratic performance across four core categories: Representation, Rights, Rule of Law, and Participation. Representation scored the highest, with 47 countries (27%) achieving top marks in 2024. However, declines were observed across all regions, affecting both well-functioning and struggling democracies. Suriname, for instance, falls within the ‘mid-range’ category, with scores of 51/173 in Representation, 47/173 in Rights, 63/173 in Rule of Law, and 29/173 in Participation.
Globally, the Rule of Law remains the weakest category, with 41% of countries classified as underperforming in 2024. Judicial independence saw the most significant decline. Suriname performed moderately in this area, emphasizing the need for cautious reforms to strengthen its democratic framework.
Within the Rights category, access to justice and press freedom emerged as critical concerns. Press freedom weakened in 43 countries, nearly a quarter of those studied, signaling a serious threat to public accountability and informed political participation. Suriname must remain vigilant in this regard.
Participation remained relatively stable, with only 11 countries showing notable changes between 2019 and 2024. However, Suriname faces challenges in fostering informed and critical participation. Global migration, affecting 3.7% of the world’s population, also plays a key role in democratic uncertainty. Expanding political participation, including voting rights for citizens abroad, can enhance democratic resilience and foster a sense of belonging.
For Suriname, diaspora voting remains a contentious issue, with no legislative changes to grant voting rights to overseas citizens. DA’91, a political party, supports the report’s conclusion that diaspora voting could strengthen democratic resilience. While there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution, legal and administrative developments in this area could significantly boost participation both domestically and abroad.
Maintaining democracy requires patience, maintenance, and occasional reinvention. Suriname, like other democracies, must continuously evaluate and strengthen its institutional frameworks, including mechanisms for involving non-resident citizens in political decision-making. The fight against corruption remains crucial. As the report underscores, the work of democracy is never complete.
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Agriculture ministry announces availability of subsidized citrus plants for sale
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy in Dominica has unveiled a new initiative aimed at bolstering citrus production across the island. The program is designed to assist commercial citrus growers in expanding or establishing their plantations, with the ultimate goal of enhancing the local citrus industry.
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UN Rapporteur Alena Douhan arrives in Cuba on official visit
A United Nations expert has arrived in Cuba to evaluate the consequences of the economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the United States, focusing on its effects on the human rights of the Cuban population. According to the Cuban Foreign Affairs Ministry, the expert’s visit aims to provide a firsthand assessment of the blockade’s impact on various sectors of national life. During her stay, which spans several days, she will engage in discussions with government officials and visit key areas affected by this unilateral policy. Upon her arrival, she was welcomed by Alejandro Gonzalez, Director of International Agencies at the Foreign Ministry, and Francisco Pichon, the resident coordinator of the UN system in Cuba. This marks her second visit to the country, following her participation in an academic event at the University of Havana in 2023. The visit underscores the ongoing international scrutiny of the US blockade and its implications for Cuba’s socio-economic landscape.
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Belize Sends US$400K in Hurricane Relief to Jamaica and Cuba
In a significant humanitarian gesture, Belize has committed $400,000 in emergency relief to Jamaica and Cuba, allocating $200,000 to each nation in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. The catastrophic Category 5 storm wreaked havoc across the Caribbean in late October 2025, leaving behind a trail of destruction that includes severe flooding, power outages, damaged infrastructure, and the displacement of thousands of families. The hurricane also disrupted essential services such as water systems, healthcare facilities, and transportation networks, further complicating recovery efforts. Hurricane Melissa, which formed during the peak of the 2025 hurricane season, rapidly intensified as it entered the Caribbean, causing estimated losses of $6–7 billion, equivalent to 28–32% of Jamaica’s GDP. Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness described the disaster as both a humanitarian and economic crisis, reigniting calls for climate accountability ahead of COP30. The Belizean government emphasized the disproportionate climate vulnerabilities faced by Caribbean and small island states, underscoring the urgent need for global action. In addition to financial aid, Belize has sent relief packages to its students in Jamaica and Cuba, containing personal hygiene kits, canned food, and emergency cash. Officials have pledged further assistance if required, reaffirming Belize’s solidarity with the affected nations. ‘Our nations remain united by enduring friendship, cooperation, and mutual support,’ the government stated.
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Belize’s Bishop Philip Wright Elected Archbishop of the West Indies
In a historic achievement for Belize, Bishop Philip S. Wright has been elected as the Archbishop of the Church in the Province of the West Indies. This marks the second time a Belizean bishop has been chosen for this prestigious role since 1934. The announcement was made during the 42nd Provincial Synod held in the Bahamas. Bishop Wright, who has served as the leader of the Anglican Diocese of Belize for nearly two decades, described the moment as “overwhelming” and vowed to continue his service with humility and dedication.
In his address, Bishop Wright expressed his profound gratitude, stating, “You never imagined a day like this would come… It gives me an opportunity to serve the church I love, the church to which I have devoted the majority of my life.” His election has been widely celebrated, with Tracy Panton, Leader of the Opposition, extending her congratulations on behalf of the United Democratic Party and her family. She praised Bishop Wright’s “extraordinary leadership, spiritual depth, and unwavering devotion to the service of God’s people.”
As Archbishop-elect, Bishop Wright emphasized the importance of youth engagement and the church’s role in addressing regional issues during his speech at the synod. His elevation is seen as a significant milestone for both Belize and the Anglican community in the West Indies.
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Guatemala shows disrespect for US condemnation of blockade on Cuba
In a thought-provoking analysis, writer and journalist Juan Antonio Canel highlighted the enduring challenges faced by the United Nations (UN) in fulfilling its founding charter. Article 1 of the charter mandates collective measures to prevent threats to peace and suppress acts of aggression. However, Canel pointed out two critical issues that continue to undermine this mission: the U.S. government’s economic, commercial, and financial blockade of Cuba, and the ongoing genocide in Gaza. Despite widespread international condemnation, these crises persist, raising questions about the UN’s effectiveness. Canel described the blockade against Cuba as inhumane and questioned the legitimacy of such sanctions imposed on a sovereign nation. He emphasized that these measures violate international law, citing the UN General Assembly’s repeated condemnation of the blockade, most recently on October 29, with 165 votes in favor, seven against, and 12 abstentions. Despite overwhelming support for ending the blockade, Canel lamented that no tangible progress has been made, underscoring the UN’s struggle to enforce its own principles.