In a recent statement, José Ignacio Paliza, the Dominican Republic’s Minister of the Presidency, highlighted the potential benefits of salary indexation as a mechanism to enhance the purchasing power of workers, particularly the middle class. However, he stressed that such measures must not negatively impact the nation’s most vulnerable populations. Speaking after a meeting of the PRM Executive Directorate on Friday, Paliza underscored the importance of balancing economic reforms with social equity. The proposed salary indexation is part of a broader government reform initiative introduced last year to address persistent inflation and improve family incomes. Paliza acknowledged the challenge of compensating for potential revenue losses to the State but firmly rejected suggestions to fund the initiative by cutting subsidies or social programs. He pointed out that these programs support over 700,000 Dominicans and have been instrumental in reducing poverty to historic lows. Paliza’s remarks reflect the government’s commitment to fostering economic growth while safeguarding social welfare.
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DOE: Ronald Venetiaan blijft voorbeeld van integriteit en staatsmanschap
The Party for Democracy and Development in Unity (DOE) has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of former President of the Republic of Suriname, Ronald Venetiaan. Affectionately known as “Vene” or “El Vene,” Venetiaan served three terms as head of state, making him the longest-serving president in Suriname’s history. His leadership was marked by principles, integrity, and a commitment to public service, playing a pivotal role in restoring democracy after a period of military rule. During his tenure, he ended the civil war and championed socio-economic recovery, political stability, and regional cooperation within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). The DOE described Venetiaan as a principled leader—sometimes beloved, sometimes criticized—but always steadfast in his convictions. “To this day, there is no president comparable to Vene,” the party stated. His passing is seen as an opportunity to reflect on the values he embodied: ethics, justice, transparency, and national unity. DOE Chairman Steven Alfaisi emphasized, “These are ideals we must continue to fight for, despite all challenges.” The party extended its heartfelt condolences to the Venetiaan family, his friends, members of the National Party of Suriname (NPS), and the Surinamese people. “His flame has been extinguished, but his ideals continue to burn. His legacy will forever inspire us to work in the best interest of the nation and its people,” the DOE concluded. Rest in peace, El Vene.
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Leonel Fernández urges inflation adjustment to protect workers’ income
In a compelling statement on Thursday, Leonel Fernández, former President of the Dominican Republic and leader of the People’s Force, raised concerns over the detrimental effects of inflation on the nation’s workforce. Describing inflation as a “hidden tax,” Fernández emphasized the urgent need for policy adjustments to protect workers’ incomes and ensure tax equity.
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Government opens reconstructed St. Peter’s Main Road
The government of St. Kitts and Nevis has officially inaugurated the newly reconstructed St. Peter’s Main Road, marking a significant milestone in the island’s infrastructure development. The project, executed by Rock and Dirt Construction, spans over three miles and includes comprehensive upgrades such as road reconstruction, base stabilization, asphalt resurfacing, and the installation of retaining walls, curbs, sidewalks, and advanced drainage systems. This multimillion-dollar initiative is part of the government’s Aggressive National Road Infrastructure Programme, aimed at enhancing safety, accessibility, and equitable development across communities. Minister of Public Infrastructure Konris Maynard emphasized that the project symbolizes progress and opportunity for the people of St. Kitts and Nevis, particularly in the fast-growing St. Peter’s area. Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, who has a personal connection to the community, praised the project’s high-quality execution by local contractors and highlighted its significance in addressing long-standing neglect. The completion of St. Peter’s Main Road is expected to serve as a catalyst for further development in the region.
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Recreational club for senior citizens opens in Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo has welcomed a new haven for senior citizens with the inauguration of La Casa de Don Carlos, a recreational club designed to promote holistic well-being, socialization, and happiness among the elderly. The project, launched on Thursday, aims to honor the wisdom and contributions of older generations while providing them with a safe and enriching environment.
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Free Zone Businessman Survives Targeted Shooting Near City
A targeted shooting on the George Price Highway near Belize City has left two men hospitalized, raising concerns about escalating tensions in the region. Nitin Buxani, a 39-year-old businessman, and his driver, Rene Arnold, were ambushed near the Eight Mile Community as their Chevrolet pickup truck was riddled with bullets. Authorities recovered nearly two dozen shell casings from the scene, with ten bullet holes found in the windshield alone. Investigators believe the shooter was positioned on a pedestrian ramp before opening fire. The motive remains unclear, though speculation points to Buxani’s business dealings in the Corozal Free Zone, where trade disputes with Mexico have reportedly intensified. With cartel influence prevalent along the northern border, the incident has sparked fears of organized crime involvement. Police have yet to confirm any direct links. Paul Lopez reports on this developing story.
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Politic : The MCI and the private sector commit to reducing community violence
On November 6, 2025, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MCI) of Haiti, in collaboration with the Regional Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the United Nations system, hosted a pivotal session of the Private Sector Engagement Forum at the Karibe Convention Center in Pétion-ville. The event aimed to address the pressing issue of community violence in Haiti through economic and social strategies. Key attendees included Frinel Joseph, Presidential Advisor; Pedrica Saint Jean, Minister for the Status of Women; James Monazard, Minister of Commerce and Industry; and representatives from the UN and the Kenyan Gang Suppression Force (GSF).
The forum focused on the National Action Plan for Disarmament, Demobilization, Reintegration, and Reduction of Community Violence (DDR-RVC), emphasizing the need to tackle the root causes of violence by fostering sustainable economic opportunities. Discussions underscored the importance of economic governance, local solutions, and private sector integration into national stabilization efforts. The overarching goal is to strengthen communities, boost local employment, and promote social peace.
In his address, Frinel Joseph highlighted the necessity of peace for constitutional order, urging private sector involvement in youth reintegration and community reconstruction. Minister Monazard outlined short-term initiatives to support entrepreneurship in violence-free areas and long-term plans to enhance the entrepreneurial ecosystem in vulnerable neighborhoods. He stressed the role of inclusive economic development in combating insecurity.
Minister Pedrica Saint Jean emphasized the critical role of women in peacebuilding and economic recovery, calling for their active participation in community mediation and social reconstruction. She urged the private sector to adopt a gender perspective in its strategies, asserting that women’s involvement is essential for lasting peace and economic recovery. The forum concluded with a reaffirmation of the government’s commitment to building an inclusive and resilient society with women as key contributors to national development.
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San Pedro Killer Found Guilty of Double Murder
Anthony Carballo Jr., also known as ‘Lee Pena,’ has been found guilty of a double murder that shocked the community of San Pedro. The 31-year-old was convicted by Justice Candace Nanton on two counts of murder for the execution-style killings of Deon Faber and Allen Martinez. The crime occurred on March 21, 2019, in broad daylight at approximately 1:45 p.m. Carballo, one of four prisoners brought to Belize City for the trial, awaits his sentencing scheduled for November 7, 2025. During the sentencing hearing, Justice Nanton will consider Carballo’s mitigation plea and hear testimony from two character witnesses. Originally, Carballo was charged alongside Darrell Grant, who was acquitted due to insufficient evidence. Prosecutors argued that the two men acted together, but surveillance footage and circumstantial evidence pointed solely to Carballo as the shooter. The case relied heavily on over 40 video clips and a statement from Faber’s wife, who tragically passed away during the pandemic. In her 2019 statement, she recounted the harrowing moment when two men stormed her home. Faber ran inside, and Martinez attempted to shield her before both were fatally shot. Although the actual murder was not captured on camera, the footage showed the suspects arriving and fleeing the scene moments after the gunfire. Carballo remained silent throughout the trial, while Grant claimed he was merely present to purchase marijuana and had no involvement in the killings. The sentencing on Friday will determine the length of Carballo’s prison term.
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Mayor Wagner Led Motion to Block Hangar Access
In a surprising turn of events, Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner has come under scrutiny for his role in a motion to block vehicular access to the Hangar, a prominent seafront area. Despite initially claiming he couldn’t recall who initiated the petition during an August council meeting, official minutes reveal that Mayor Wagner himself proposed the motion, which was seconded by Deputy Mayor Eluide Miller. This decision marks a stark reversal from a 2022 council meeting where a similar petition was rejected. Back then, councilors argued that the area should remain a public reserve, emphasizing the need for increased policing rather than restricted access. Mayor Wagner now defends the motion as a measure to enhance the quality of life for residents, citing concerns about noise and disturbances. However, critics question the transparency of the decision-making process and its implications for public access. The council’s shift in stance has sparked debate over the balance between private interests and public rights, leaving many to wonder what has changed since 2022.
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Former BTL Workers Win Landmark Severance Case
In a landmark decision on November 6, 2025, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) ruled in favor of ten former employees of Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL), affirming their entitlement to severance pay under the Belize Labor Act. This ruling overturned a previous decision by the Court of Appeal, marking a significant victory for labor rights in Belize. The case has sparked widespread discussion about its implications for both the public and private sectors, particularly regarding compliance with labor laws. Valentino Shal, CEO of the Ministry of Labor, emphasized the importance of the ruling, stating that it is currently under review to assess its broader impact on Belize’s labor market. Shal highlighted the need for careful examination to ensure compliance across all sectors, including those transitioning from severance schemes to pension plans. The decision is expected to set a precedent for future labor disputes and reinforce the enforcement of workers’ rights in Belize.