In a strategic move to counter Uber’s recent entry into Barbados, the Bridgetown Port Taxi Co-op Society Ltd unveiled its own ride-hailing app, Zail Barbados, on Wednesday. The launch, held at Copacabana Beach Club, marked a significant milestone for the local taxi industry, which has been preparing for this moment for months. Adrian Smiley Bailey, President of the co-op, emphasized that the initiative was not a reactionary measure but a well-planned effort to safeguard the interests of local drivers.
作者： admin
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Column: Mogelijke scenario’s
Suriname has taken the lead in Group A of the World Cup qualifiers, edging ahead of Panama based on a superior goal-scoring record. Both teams currently hold six points, but Suriname’s four goals scored and three conceded give them the edge over Panama’s three goals scored and two conceded. Guatemala follows closely in third place with five points, while El Salvador sits at the bottom with three points. With two matches remaining, the group remains wide open, as even the last-placed team could still secure a spot in the next round. Guatemala, playing its remaining matches at home, has a strong chance to climb to the top if they win both games, potentially reaching 11 points. However, home advantage doesn’t guarantee victory, as El Salvador previously defeated Guatemala on their own turf. Guatemala has been ramping up its psychological tactics with intimidating promotional content, but the outcome will ultimately be decided on the field. For Suriname, the path to securing the top spot is clear: they must maximize their goal-scoring opportunities while minimizing defensive lapses. Even marginal victories might not suffice if Panama outperforms them in goal difference. The most favorable scenario for Suriname would involve a draw between Guatemala and Panama, ensuring they maintain their lead. However, the competition remains fierce, and any misstep could abruptly end their World Cup aspirations. The upcoming matches will be decisive, with goal-scoring efficiency playing a critical role in determining the group’s final standings.
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Rob Jetten (D66) grootste winnaar verkiezingen Nederland
In a landmark outcome for Dutch politics, the Democrats 66 (D66) party, led by 38-year-old Rob Jetten, has emerged as the largest party in the Netherlands following Wednesday’s parliamentary elections. According to initial exit polls, D66 is projected to secure 27 seats, surpassing Geert Wilders’ Party for Freedom (PVV) with 25 seats and the People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) with 23 seats. This result signals a decisive shift toward political stability and collaboration, marking a departure from years of fragmentation and populist influence. Jetten, who could become the youngest and first openly gay prime minister in Dutch history, addressed supporters in The Hague, stating, ‘Millions of Dutch citizens have turned a page today. We are saying goodbye to the politics of negativity and hatred and embracing hope, reason, and respect.’ The election outcome reflects a broader trend toward the political center, with radical-right parties like the PVV losing ground. Meanwhile, the VVD and the socially conservative New Social Contract (NSC) are positioned around the center, while the GreenLeft-Labour alliance underperformed with approximately 20 seats. Shortly after the exit polls were announced, Frans Timmermans, leader of the GreenLeft-Labour alliance, resigned, acknowledging the need for ‘new energy and leadership.’ With no party nearing the 76-seat majority required to govern, coalition negotiations are expected to be lengthy and complex. Analysts predict Jetten will aim to form a broad center coalition, potentially involving the VVD, NSC, and one or two smaller parties, while ruling out collaboration with the PVV. Key campaign issues included purchasing power, migration, housing, climate, and trust in government. D66’s victory is widely interpreted as a call for stability, professionalism, and cooperation. Updated exit polls and preliminary vote counts are anticipated later today.
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Public debt unit to allow citizen access – Straughn
Barbados is set to transform its public debt unit into an investor relations agency as part of a broader initiative to enhance debt management and make government securities accessible to ordinary citizens. Finance Minister Ryan Straughn announced the plan during the 20th Annual Meeting of the LAC Debt Group 2025, held at the Hilton Barbados. The restructuring aims to emphasize citizen participation in debt management, with the revamped unit handling front, middle, and back-office functions. Currently, the Central Bank acts as the fiscal agent, but the new unit will proactively manage the debt portfolio, treating it as a productive sector of the economy. Additionally, the government has approved a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework under its procurement law to share risks with the private sector while maximizing value for citizens. The investor relations unit will focus on extracting value from PPPs, shifting risks to the private sector, and fostering economic growth. Digital platforms like BIMPay will facilitate broader participation in the domestic capital market, enabling real-time payments and reducing costs for financial institutions and merchants. The government also plans to introduce smaller investment lots, allowing individuals to invest as little as $50 in treasury bills, with digital notifications streamlining the process. The ultimate goal is to democratize access to government debt returns, ensuring that average citizens can earn returns comparable to larger investors. Minister Straughn emphasized that this initiative will reduce reliance on banks as brokers, enabling direct citizen participation in the debt market.
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Moertabat blijft bij zijn standpunt: Ik ben klaar met de VHP
Sidik Moertabat, a prominent member of the VHP (Progressive Reform Party) leadership, has reaffirmed his decision to resign from the party’s executive board. In a recent interview with Starnieuws, Moertabat emphasized that his departure is final and that he will formally communicate his resignation to the party’s leadership. He has already drafted a letter to VHP Chairman Chan Santokhi, signaling his complete break from the party. This move comes despite claims by VHP spokesperson Dew Sharman, who denied Moertabat’s resignation in a radio interview, stating that he remains a member of the executive board. Moertabat, however, clarified that he did not authorize Sharman to speak on his behalf and stands by his decision. His resignation was initially announced in a group chat among VHP executives, which was later leaked, prompting media inquiries. Moertabat cited deep dissatisfaction with the party’s leadership, particularly the lack of communication and inclusivity in decision-making processes. He expressed frustration over being sidelined during key events, such as the preparation for the May parliamentary elections and the candidate selection process. Moertabat, who joined the VHP in 2012 after leaving the KTPI, served as a member of the National Assembly from 2020 to 2025. His departure underscores growing internal tensions within the VHP following its recent electoral defeat.
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Port police officer Yannick Leon charged, remanded in $1.3m drug bust
Yannick Leon, a port police officer employed by the Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA), has been formally charged and remanded in custody in connection with a major narcotics importation case. The drugs, valued at over $1.3 million, were discovered during a July 16, 2025, operation at Port Castries Seaport. Leon allegedly attempted to clear a fraudulent barrel shipment using forged documents, including a fake Letter of Authorisation. A subsequent search revealed 19 sealed metal cans containing 266 packs of cannabis resin (hashish), weighing approximately 26.8 kilogrammes. Leon faces multiple charges, including Importation of a Controlled Drug, Possession with Intent to Supply, Fraudulent Evasion, Forgery, and Uttering a False Document. Initially detained and later released pending further investigation, Leon was re-arrested on October 27 following extensive evidence gathering and forensic analysis. The case highlights the importance of inter-agency cooperation in disrupting organised criminal activities. Leon is set to remain in custody until December 9, 2025, as investigations continue.
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News : Zapping…
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact across the Caribbean, the United States has swiftly mobilized its disaster response capabilities. The U.S. Department of State has deployed a Regional Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) and activated Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) units to support relief operations. These teams are collaborating with affected nations, local communities, and international partners to assess needs and coordinate emergency responses. U.S. Ambassador Wooster and the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince have expressed profound condolences to those who lost loved ones, emphasizing solidarity with bereaved families, the injured, and the displaced. The U.S. is working closely with Haitian authorities and humanitarian organizations to address the aftermath, including flooding and landslides caused by the storm. Meanwhile, Haiti is also making strides in other areas. Team Haiti, a group of talented young individuals aged 17 to 18, is set to represent the nation at the FIRST Global Challenge 2025, an international robotics competition in Panama. Their innovative robot, designed to promote ecological balance and biodiversity, reflects Haiti’s commitment to sustainability. On the humanitarian front, the Economic and Social Assistance Fund (FAES) continues its daily distribution of 24,000 hot meals to internally displaced persons in Delmas and Port-au-Prince. Additionally, 12 young professionals have been employed by the Institute of Social Welfare and Research (IBESR) as part of a youth employment initiative. In leadership news, Dice Conte Saint Louis and Gamy Clervil have been appointed as the new Director General and Deputy Director General, respectively, of the Miragoâne National Port Authority.
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Politic : Government expresses sympathy and mobilizes following Melissa’s passage
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic impact on Haiti, Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, on behalf of the Haitian government, has extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. The storm, which struck on October 29, 2025, caused severe damage across multiple regions, particularly in the Grand Sud and the commune of Petit-Goâve, where the La Digue River overflowed, leading to widespread flooding. Initial reports from the Directorate General of Civil Protection indicate a concerning provisional death toll, with the government expressing profound sorrow and solidarity with the affected communities. Prime Minister Fils-Aimé has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting recovery and reconstruction efforts, emphasizing the need for national unity and collective responsibility in addressing the crisis. Immediate directives have been issued to key ministries and agencies to mobilize resources effectively. The Minister of Public Works, Transport, and Communications has been tasked with clearing blocked roads and restoring infrastructure, while the Minister of Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Rural Development is assessing agricultural losses and proposing measures to revive food production. Additionally, the Economic and Social Assistance Fund has been instructed to provide emergency aid, including food, water, and hygiene kits, to those impacted by the disaster. This tragedy underscores Haiti’s vulnerability to climate-related hazards and highlights the urgent need for coordinated disaster response efforts.
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FLASH : The Haitian National Police announces a series of victories against terrorist gangs
In a significant development, the Haitian National Police (PNH), alongside the Gang Repression Force (FRG), has reported a series of decisive victories against terrorist gangs across multiple regions. These coordinated operations mark a turning point in Haiti’s ongoing battle against organized crime and terrorism. In Artibonite, particularly in Désarines and Liancourt, PNH forces successfully neutralized terrorists, confiscated heavy weaponry, and liberated communities previously under gang control. In the Centre region, specifically Lascahobas, increased patrols and strategic maneuvers led to the recapture of key areas, further weakening gang influence. Port-au-Prince witnessed a major security overhaul, with precision operations targeting gang sentries and members, resulting in the restoration of economic activities and the resumption of cabinet meetings at the National Palace. The security perimeter in the city center has now been extended to Boulevard Jean-Jacques Dessalines, signaling a strengthened law enforcement presence. Acting Commander-in-Chief Vladimir Paraison praised the bravery of PNH officers and urged the public to continue their cooperation by providing actionable intelligence. These victories underscore the PNH’s commitment to restoring stability and security in Haiti, offering a glimmer of hope for a nation long plagued by violence and instability.
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Eerste officiële universitair bezoek aan Surinaamse ambassade in China
The Embassy of the Republic of Suriname in China recently welcomed a delegation of faculty members and students from the School of Government and Public Affairs and Communication at a prominent Chinese university. This marked a historic occasion, as it was the first time the university had visited a diplomatic mission in China. Ambassador Pick Fung Ho-Chong hosted the group in Beijing, facilitating an enriching exchange on culture, history, and diplomacy. During her presentation, the Ambassador provided an insightful overview of Suriname, highlighting its geographical location, multi-religious and multicultural society, and the historical presence of the Chinese community in Suriname since 1853. She also emphasized the diplomatic relations between Suriname and China, which have flourished since 1976 and will celebrate their 50th anniversary in 2026. The Ambassador underscored the importance of mutual understanding and cultural exchange, encouraging students to deepen their knowledge of Suriname and share it within their academic circles. Symbols such as the national flag and coat of arms were explained as representations of Surinamese identity and values, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Trade, and Cooperation. Jin Yong, Secretary of the Party Committee of the School, expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality and reiterated the university’s commitment to nurturing globally-minded talents. He praised Suriname for facilitating this unique encounter. A poignant moment was the recitation of the poem ‘Long Live Youth’ by students, symbolizing the enduring friendship between the two nations. The event concluded with an exchange of commemorative gifts and a call from the Ambassador for students to continue building bridges between Suriname and China.