In a bold move to secure the support of the nation’s youth, Opposition Leader Godwin Friday has introduced a comprehensive five-point pledge aimed at addressing key issues affecting young people in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The announcement was made during the New Democratic Party’s (NDP) DJ Sound Clash event in Campden Park on Saturday, where Friday urged the youth to vote the NDP into power and hold them accountable for their promises. The pledge includes significant measures such as reducing student loan interest rates to 4-4.5%, increasing public assistance to EC$500 monthly, and cutting VAT on essential goods and residential electricity. Additionally, the NDP plans to establish a National Athlete Programme, a national development bank, and an innovation hub to support young entrepreneurs and athletes. Friday emphasized the party’s commitment to creating job opportunities, training programs, and internships for the youth, as well as improving e-commerce payment gateways to help young people monetize their online ventures. The opposition leader’s pledge comes as the Unity Labour Party (ULP) seeks a sixth consecutive term in office, with general elections expected by November 2024. Friday’s vision for a brighter future for St. Vincent and the Grenadines resonated strongly with the audience, as he called on young people to register and vote for change.
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Rising temperatures see Saint Lucians trying to beat the heat
The sweltering heat in Saint Lucia has become a daily struggle for its residents, with many expressing their discomfort as they navigate the island’s streets under the relentless midday sun. “Wah, it really hot, I never feel it so!” exclaimed a woman on Castries Boulevard, her words echoing the sentiments of countless Saint Lucians. This intense heat is not just a local anomaly but part of a global phenomenon driven by climate change. Climate policy advisor Jevanic Henry explained, “The increasing temperatures we are experiencing are becoming a new normal not only in Saint Lucia but around the world.” He attributed this trend to the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, primarily due to human activities such as burning fossil fuels, manufacturing, and deforestation. Data from the World Meteorological Organisation confirms that 2024 is on track to be the hottest year on record, with 2025 likely to follow suit. The rising temperatures have altered daily routines, prompting residents to seek shade and adjust their schedules to avoid peak heat hours. Retailers have reported mixed responses, with some noting steady sales of fans while others observe a significant surge in demand. The heat has also intensified water and electricity consumption, straining the island’s already challenged utilities. Henry emphasized the need for sustainable solutions, including renewable energy and water conservation, to address these issues. “Islands such as Saint Lucia, which receive a consistent supply of energy from the sun, can capitalize on advancing their renewable energy transition,” he said. While immediate relief comes in the form of umbrellas and fans, long-term strategies like solar energy adoption and improved water management may be essential to mitigate the impacts of rising temperatures.
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Man Stabbed in the Groin During Violent Dispute in Belmont
A violent domestic dispute in Belmont on the evening of October 10, 2025, resulted in a man being hospitalized after sustaining a stab wound to his groin. The altercation, which occurred around 6:30 p.m., involved a heated argument between the man and his former partner inside their home. Emergency services were alerted by the woman, who confessed to stabbing her ex-boyfriend during the confrontation. Upon arrival, police discovered bloodstains throughout the living room and hallway, along with a knife and a black shirt believed to be connected to the incident. The injured man was swiftly transported to the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, where he underwent emergency surgery. Medical professionals later confirmed that he was in stable condition. Senior investigators and forensic teams meticulously processed the scene, though no charges have been filed as of yet. Authorities emphasized the ongoing issue of domestic violence, urging individuals in strained relationships to seek help before conflicts escalate into violence.
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Police Probe Sugar Cane Theft in All Saints
Authorities in Antigua are intensifying efforts to address a surge in praedial larceny, following a recent incident in All Saints where a farmer reported the theft of a $300 EC bundle of sugar cane. The theft, discovered on October 9, has added to a growing list of similar cases plaguing the island’s agricultural sector. Despite immediate police intervention, including interviews with local residents, no leads have been uncovered, leaving the investigation ongoing. This incident underscores a persistent issue that continues to undermine farmers’ livelihoods and disrupt local food production. Farmers are increasingly vocal about the need for stricter penalties and enhanced security measures, such as increased patrols in rural areas, to deter thefts that often occur during nighttime or when farms are unattended. Agricultural officials emphasize that while individual thefts may appear minor, their cumulative effect is significant, leading to reduced income for farmers, lowered morale, and a threat to national food security. Authorities are urging communities to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to help safeguard local food supplies and support the agricultural sector.
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Hamas bevestigt vrijlating gijzelaars vanaf maandag
Hamas has officially announced that the release of hostages will commence this Monday, in accordance with the newly brokered ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement with Israel. This development is part of a broader effort to de-escalate tensions in the Gaza Strip. In exchange, Israel has agreed to release a number of Palestinian prisoners. Both parties are under significant international pressure to execute the agreement meticulously and without incident. The first groups of hostages are expected to be handed over to representatives of the International Red Cross on Monday. Preparations for logistics and medical care on the Israeli side are already underway. Security sources indicate that dozens of hostages, some in poor health, have been held since the escalation of the conflict. Israeli medical teams are on standby to immediately examine and assist the released individuals. The announcement comes as the international community hopes this agreement marks the beginning of a prolonged period of calm. Diplomatic mediation led by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States played a pivotal role in reaching the deal. While the implementation of the agreement is a crucial step, the region remains tense. Israel has stated it reserves the right to military action if Hamas violates the ceasefire terms.
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Zonnige zondag met warme middagtemperaturen
This Sunday, Suriname is experiencing predominantly dry and sunny weather. Early morning temperatures across much of the country remain pleasantly cool, ranging between 24 and 26 degrees Celsius. As the day progresses, the heat intensifies rapidly, with afternoon temperatures soaring to 33 to 34 degrees, particularly in coastal regions. Winds are light to moderate, blowing from the east, while humidity levels gradually rise. No significant rainfall is anticipated. Along the coast, including areas around Paramaribo, Commewijne, and Nickerie, the skies remain sunny with occasional thin cloud cover. In the Brokopondo and Sipaliwini districts, the weather is similarly warm and dry, though the perceived temperature may feel higher due to low wind speeds. The evening promises clear and calm conditions, with temperatures slowly dropping to around 26 degrees, and the likelihood of precipitation remains minimal.
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SDA Pastor Publicly Brings Clarity and Theological Awareness to the Daniel 2 Statue Debate
In a recent social media post, Pastor K. Doyle of the Seventh-day Adventist Church addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding the construction of a replica of the Daniel 2 statue. Titled “A Rationale for Building a Replica of the Image in Daniel 2,” his statement seeks to provide theological clarity and foster unity within the Christian community. Pastor Doyle emphasized that the replica is not intended for worship but as an educational tool to illustrate God’s sovereignty over earthly kingdoms. He explained that the statue serves as a visual reminder of the biblical prophecy that all human empires will eventually fall, while God’s eternal kingdom will endure. Doyle highlighted five key benefits of the replica: it aids in understanding biblical prophecy, creates evangelistic opportunities, reinforces spiritual truths, strengthens faith, and fosters community engagement. However, he also acknowledged potential drawbacks, such as misinterpretation in cultures unfamiliar with religious imagery and the risk of legal or cultural conflicts in regions with restrictions on public religious symbols. Doyle clarified that the biblical commandment in Exodus 20:4–5 prohibits worshiping graven images, not their creation. As the debate continues, legal experts are being consulted to determine whether Antiguan law permits the erection of such a statue. Pastor Doyle’s balanced approach has brought a measure of calm to the discussion, with many hoping it will refocus attention on understanding prophecy and promoting unity.
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Police investigating fatal traffic accident in Nevis
Authorities in Nevis are intensifying their probe into a tragic traffic accident that resulted in the death of one driver and left another severely injured. The incident, which took place on September 30, 2025, involved three vehicles and occurred between 1:00 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. on Government Road. The vehicles included a motor car (PA1516) driven by Ms. Monique Daniel of Maddens Estate, a motor van (PA5523) operated by Mrs. Sherina Pemberton of Cox Village, and a motor jeep (PB4092) driven by Mr. Recaldo Hendrickson. Preliminary investigations indicate that the collision occurred when PA1516 attempted to turn right onto Pump Road and was struck by PA5523, causing both vehicles to sustain heavy damage. The impact forced PA1516 toward the mountainside, while PA5523 rolled backward and collided with PB4092. Both Daniel and Pemberton were rushed to the hospital, with Pemberton succumbing to her injuries on October 9, 2025. An autopsy is scheduled to determine the exact cause of death. This marks the sixth road fatality in the region this year.
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RSS and Canada dicsuss maritime security and capacity building
In a significant diplomatic engagement, Her Excellency E. Brenda Wills, the High Commissioner of Canada to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, visited the headquarters of the Regional Security System (RSS) on Sunday, October 12, 2025. The visit underscored the deepening collaboration between Canada and the RSS in areas of maritime security and capacity building. Rear Admiral Errington Shurland, Executive Director of the RSS, welcomed the High Commissioner and expressed gratitude for Canada’s sustained support, particularly in maintaining the RSS Air Wing and enhancing the RSS Training Institute. The discussions centered on future joint initiatives aimed at bolstering regional security and operational capabilities. During the visit, the Canadian delegation toured key facilities, including the RSS Training Institute, the Digital Forensic Laboratory, the Asset Recovery Unit, and the Air Wing. To commemorate the occasion, Rear Admiral Shurland presented High Commissioner Wills with a commemorative plaque. The meeting also saw the participation of senior RSS officials, including Deputy Executive Director Atlee Rodney and Director of Operations and Plans Lt. Col. Jeffrey Forde, alongside members of the Canadian High Commission delegation, such as Political Counsellor Stephanie Sprott and Royal Canadian Mounted Police Liaison Counsellor Hugo Boilard. This visit highlights the ongoing commitment of both nations to fostering regional stability and security.
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Owner of Rumba bar in Sosúa retains rights to business despite possible deportation
In the wake of social media speculation regarding the alleged forfeiture of property belonging to Bahamian national Devree Antoine Holis, known as ‘Ray,’ El Nuevo Norte has issued a clarification. The media outlet emphasized that deportation or forced departure from the Dominican Republic does not equate to the loss of legally acquired private property. Holis, the owner of the Rumba bar on Pedro Clisante Street in Sosúa, Puerto Plata, had recently applied for Dominican residency but lacked legal immigration status at the time of his arrest following an altercation with Politur agents. According to Dominican law, foreigners can engage in legal transactions, such as purchasing property or businesses, within the three-month legal stay period, provided they possess valid documentation like a passport, visa, or temporary permit. A legal expert explained that while the government may deny residency, deportation does not strip foreigners of their assets. Holis’s partner continues to manage the bar, which remains operational. The incident leading to his potential deportation involved an altercation with police officers stationed near his establishment. Legal provisions under the General Migration Law (285-04) govern residency applications and property rights, ensuring that deportation does not invalidate ownership. El Nuevo Norte has urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information as the case remains under investigation by immigration authorities and the Sosúa Prosecutor’s Office.