作者: admin

  • CLO betrekt loonreeksen rechterlijke macht bij onderhandelingen

    CLO betrekt loonreeksen rechterlijke macht bij onderhandelingen

    Suriname’s public sector wage structure faces mounting scrutiny as Ravaksur Plus, the country’s central labor organization, prepares to leverage recently disclosed judicial compensation scales in upcoming government negotiations. Michael Miskin, Chairman of the Central Civil Servants Organizations (CLO), confirmed to Starnieuws that the union will demand substantial adjustments to address growing disparities within government pay grades.

    The controversy stems from revelations that high-ranking judicial officials receive compensation far exceeding established benchmarks. While Surinamese law mandates that the President of the Court of Justice and the Attorney General earn 95% of the presidential salary (approximately SRD 130,000 monthly), additional benefits have created significant deviations. Through seniority calculations and annual 5% incremental increases, some judicial officials now reportedly receive net monthly payments reaching SRD 1 million – vastly surpassing the intended compensation structure.

    Miskin highlighted two potential solutions: either elevating all public servants to match judicial wage levels or rolling back recent judicial increases. He emphasized that the foundational principle preventing any government employee from exceeding the presidential salary has been effectively undermined. The union leader also questioned internal inconsistencies, noting that the Court’s Vice President reportedly earns more than the President, while the Attorney General receives double the intended amount.

    Compounding the issue, these salary adjustments were applied retroactively to January 2024, resulting in purported windfalls exceeding SRD 20 million for some officials. The situation creates a compounding problem: any percentage increase negotiated for civil servants would automatically elevate judicial salaries further, perpetuating the disparity.

    Ravaksur Plus anticipates government action to correct these structural imbalances and will prioritize the issue during forthcoming wage negotiations, potentially setting the stage for significant public sector reforms.

  • U.S. veterans file US$1M lawsuit over medical tourism project in Jarabacoa

    U.S. veterans file US$1M lawsuit over medical tourism project in Jarabacoa

    Two decorated US Army veterans have initiated legal proceedings in Dominican courts against local entrepreneur Gerineldo de los Santos Martínez, alleging fraudulent activities and breach of trust involving over $1 million in investments for a proposed medical and eco-wellness tourism complex in Jarabacoa.

    Alfredo Antonio Cordero Camacho and Terry Wayne Wheat Jr., co-founders of Veterans Community Care Abroad (VCCA), assert that their business partner failed to honor contractual commitments essential for their project’s expansion. VCCA, which has successfully operated healthcare clinics in Bávaro and Punta Cana since 2022, provides comprehensive medical services to US veterans residing in or visiting the Dominican Republic.

    Court documents reveal the plaintiffs suffered substantial financial losses due to multiple contractual violations, including incomplete construction work, suspected structural defects, unfulfilled investment obligations, and the critical failure to transfer approximately 50,000 square meters of land valued at RD$170 million (roughly $2.8 million). This land was intended as Martínez’s contribution to their joint venture developing the specialized medical complex.

    The ambitious project envisioned combining advanced healthcare facilities with eco-friendly accommodations and wellness retreats, leveraging Jarabacoa’s mountainous terrain and temperate climate to create an optimal environment for physical rehabilitation and psychological recovery programs.

    Despite making scheduled payments in both Dominican pesos and US dollars, and initiating preliminary development work, the veterans claim their partner never completed the agreed-upon land transfers or construction, effectively halting the project’s progression. The plaintiffs emphasized their legal action seeks accountability and investment protection rather than casting aspersions on the Dominican Republic’s overall investment climate. The case remains active in Dominican judicial proceedings.

  • Yearwood urges electoral reset after third parties’ election flop

    Yearwood urges electoral reset after third parties’ election flop

    Following Barbados’ unprecedented general election that resulted in a complete parliamentary sweep, prominent political scholar Dr. Ronnie Yearwood has demanded fundamental changes to the nation’s electoral framework. The former political party leader appeared on the ‘JUST POLITICS: Our Worldview’ podcast to analyze the concerning outcome where minor political organizations collectively garnered merely 1,500-2,000 votes nationwide without securing any legislative representation.

    Dr. Yearwood, an accomplished law lecturer, emphasized that the electoral performance demonstrated third parties’ continued inability to establish themselves as credible political alternatives. ‘The election results unequivocally indicate that third parties are failing to achieve electoral breakthroughs,’ Yearwood stated during his dialogue with political analysts Terry Harris and Ayo Ololara. ‘The minor parties failed to obtain statistically significant vote shares despite their participation.’

    The academic dismissed conventional wisdom suggesting that merging smaller parties would automatically generate political influence. ‘Simply consolidating minor parties doesn’t guarantee they’ll attain the substantial weight of major political organizations,’ Yearwood explained. ‘They would still likely lack essential resources, human capital, and strategic positioning necessary for effective governance.’

    Dr. Yearwood cautioned against seeking rapid parliamentary re-entry without undertaking necessary groundwork, noting that ‘meaningful political return requires intensive effort rather than shortcuts.’ Despite the electorate’s decision, he stressed that Barbados’ Westminster-derived constitutional system fundamentally depends on having an official opposition for proper governance.

    The constitutional law expert highlighted critical functions requiring opposition leader consultation, including key appointments and parliamentary committee oversight mechanisms. To prevent future parliamentary monopolies, Yearwood proposed innovative electoral modifications: introducing a limited number of national representatives selected through proportional representation alongside existing constituency MPs.

    This hybrid system, he argued, would guarantee minority parties maintain parliamentary presence even when unable to win constituency seats, thereby preserving democratic diversity and ensuring broader representation in Barbados’ legislative processes.

  • Equity fights licence revocation in court

    Equity fights licence revocation in court

    In a dramatic escalation of regulatory enforcement, Barbados’ Financial Services Commission (FSC) has revoked the operating license of Equity Insurance Company Ltd following a damning investigative report that confirmed systemic violations of insurance regulations. The decisive action prohibits the insurer from writing new policies or renewing existing ones, though existing contracts will remain valid through a one-year runoff period.

    The regulatory confrontation stems from the FSC’s August 2025 intervention when it assumed control of Equity Insurance and appointed restructuring specialist Craig Waterman from PricewaterhouseCoopers SRL to manage operations. Waterman’s comprehensive assessment, submitted to regulators, validated initial findings that the company had committed serious breaches of the Financial Services Commission Act, Insurance Act, and international best practices.

    In an unexpected countermove, Equity Insurance has initiated legal proceedings (Claim No. CIV1497/2025) against the financial watchdog, challenging both the license revocation and the commission’s earlier seizure of control. The company had previously submitted written objections and an independent assessment by Compass Advisory Services Inc. in efforts to prevent regulatory action.

    The FSC maintained that its enforcement actions were applied “effectively and proportionately” after proper consultation with the Finance Minister. Regulators emphasized that the measures were necessary to address ongoing threats to consumer interests and restore operational integrity within the insurance sector.

    Founded by Managing Director Francis Pounder and operating from Collymore Rock, St Michael, Equity Insurance now faces a critical juncture as it navigates both regulatory sanctions and legal challenges. The commission has outlined appeal procedures available to aggrieved financial institutions within 30 days of notification, reaffirming its commitment to equitable treatment throughout enforcement processes.

  • Justice : RNDDH denounces the absurd, illegal, and arbitrary nature of 4 wanted issued by the DCPJ

    Justice : RNDDH denounces the absurd, illegal, and arbitrary nature of 4 wanted issued by the DCPJ

    PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – The National Network for the Defense of Human Rights (RNDDH) has issued a scathing condemnation of four arrest warrants published by Haiti’s Central Directorate of the Judicial Police (DCPJ), labeling them as fundamentally flawed and legally unsound.

    The controversial warrants target four individuals: Arnel Belizaire (accused of financing terrorism, attacks, and conspiracy against state security), Ralph Youri Chevry (former President of Port-au-Prince Municipal Council facing similar charges), Smith Joseph (a member of presidential advisor Fritz Alphonse Jean’s cabinet charged with money laundering and terrorism financing), and Édouard Julcene (former Director of Port-au-Prince Customs Administration accused of illegal firearms trafficking, money laundering, and tax fraud).

    RNDDH’s analysis reveals critical procedural deficiencies in the DCPJ’s actions. The organization notes that none of the accused individuals were formally summoned prior to the issuance of warrants, violating fundamental judicial principles. Furthermore, comprehensive reviews of investigation reports from Haiti’s Central Unit for Economic and Financial Intelligence (UCREF) and the Anti-Corruption Unit (ULCC) show no records implicating the named individuals in the alleged crimes.

    The human rights organization particularly highlighted the case against Arnel Belizaire, describing the warrant as ‘a farce’ given his documented close relationship with DCPJ’s current director, Divisional Commissioner Justin Marc. According to RNDDH, Belizaire has maintained regular access to the judicial police institution since September 2025.

    RNDDH emphasized that proper judicial guarantees – including presumption of innocence, detailed notification of charges, and right to fair trial – must govern all investigations. These protections are enshrined not only in Haiti’s Constitution but also in international human rights instruments ratified by the country.

    The organization concluded that the DCPJ’s actions represent a dangerous politicization of judicial processes and recommended immediate suspension of the warrants pending proper legal procedures.

  • Werkgroep nieuwe loonreeks zorgpersoneel geïnstalleerd

    Werkgroep nieuwe loonreeks zorgpersoneel geïnstalleerd

    Suriname’s Ministry of Health, Welfare, and Labor has taken a significant step toward healthcare reform with the formal establishment of the Task Force for New Salary Scales for Healthcare Personnel. Minister André Misiekaba presided over the installation ceremony, which was attended by the ministry’s senior leadership team.

    The newly formed working group will utilize two key documents—’Strategic Salary Structure for Civil Servants’ and ‘Compensation Structure for Civil Servants’—as foundational frameworks for developing a balanced and contemporary remuneration system for medical professionals. This initiative represents a crucial phase in the government’s comprehensive overhaul of compensation packages for healthcare workers.

    Minister Misiekaba emphasized the dual importance of expediency and precision throughout the development process. The minister has established an ambitious timeline, expecting to receive a draft proposal within two months to ensure potential implementation by mid-2026 remains feasible.

    The task force features representation from multiple stakeholders across Suriname’s healthcare landscape. Major labor unions have delegated four representatives: Lloyd Pool, Marcia Clumper, Reshma Ghogli, and Deborah Maynard. The National Hospital Council has appointed four additional members: Sewtahal Renuka (Civil Servants), Colin Lucenda (‘s Lands Hospital), Whitney Enny (PCS), and Meredith Fernanders (Diakonessen Hospital), who will serve as committee chairperson.

    The Ministry of Health, Welfare, and Labor will maintain direct involvement through three delegates: Guillermo Hoepel, Wendy Eersel (Directorate of Health, Welfare, and Labor), and David Bakker (Bureau of Public Health Care). This collaborative approach ensures both institutional knowledge and frontline perspectives inform the final compensation framework.

  • Belmopan on Edge After Deadly Valentine’s Eve Shooting

    Belmopan on Edge After Deadly Valentine’s Eve Shooting

    The tranquil facade of Belize’s capital city has been shattered by a surge of violent crime, culminating in a devastating double homicide that has left the community reeling. On the evening of February 13th, the eve of Valentine’s Day, twenty-one-year-old Zamar Alvarez and his twenty-year-old cousin Calvert Webster were fatally shot while walking along a residential sidewalk in Belmopan.

    This tragedy represents the violent apex of a mounting crime wave that has residents on high alert. The city had already been grappling with the brazen daylight murder of a delivery driver just one month prior, compounded by recent armed robberies targeting delivery personnel. The shooting has transformed existing anxiety into profound community grief.

    Alina Alvarez, mother of Zamar, arrived at the crime scene in a state of utter devastation after receiving notification from a relative within the police department. Clutching her son’s photograph, she delivered an emotional plea for truth and justice, vehemently denying allegations of her son’s involvement in criminal activities. “I miss my child. You guys took away my everything, my joy, my hope, my peace,” she expressed through tears.

    In the sanctuary of her son’s bedroom, where his clothing remained meticulously arranged, Alvarez remembered Zamar as an aspiring musician whose lyrics reflected street life realities without glorifying violence. She recounted his recent pilgrimage to Esquipulas, Guatemala, where he acquired a cross for their Catholic household, symbolizing his hopeful outlook.

    Official commentary from Oscar Mira, Minister of Home Affairs, suggests the killings represent spillover violence from conflicts in La Democracia and Belize City. Minister Mira indicated that suspects may have sought refuge in Belmopan, while acknowledging investigative challenges due to familial non-cooperation and social media speculation.

    Despite these challenges, Alvarez maintains active communication with investigators, expressing confidence in the judicial process while leaning on her faith for solace. As police continue their search for motives and perpetrators, two families confront an unimaginable void, and a community wrestles with the erosion of its perceived safety.

  • Loved Ones Reject Claims Against Slain Cousins

    Loved Ones Reject Claims Against Slain Cousins

    BELMOPAN – Grieving families in La Democracia are mounting a vigorous defense of two cousins fatally shot last Friday, vehemently rejecting police suggestions of their involvement in criminal activities. The emotional rebuttal comes as investigators continue pursuing multiple leads in the double homicide case.

    Calvert Websters’ sister provided a compelling counter-narrative to police implications, revealing her brother had recently passed his Coast Guard examination and applied for the welding program at the University of Belize. On the day of the shooting, she confirmed Websters was in Belmopan collecting his Belize Defence Force application documents – actions she maintains demonstrate his commitment to building a legitimate future.

    Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith, Staff Officer, provided updated investigative details indicating both victims were accompanied by four other males when the shooting occurred. Smith acknowledged Websters had been identified as “a person of interest” in a recent Belmopan delivery truck robbery case, though no definitive connections have been established.

    In an emotional testimony, Websters’ sister described her brother as a generous community figure who regularly provided meals, clothing, and assistance to friends in need. “He was not gang affiliated. He was a baller,” she asserted, suggesting the perpetrator was likely someone her brother knew and trusted implicitly.

    Police authorities confirm the investigation remains active with several promising leads being pursued. ASP Smith emphasized that ongoing developments would be shared with media outlets as information becomes verified, while maintaining that investigative clarity regarding motive remains a primary objective.

  • Arrests Mount in Deadly Ladyville Shooting Spree

    Arrests Mount in Deadly Ladyville Shooting Spree

    BELIZE CITY – Law enforcement authorities have achieved a significant breakthrough in the investigation of the January 25th fatal shooting of Elroy Bainton in Ladyville, with two additional suspects now in custody. Izaiah Nigel Beeks and Camryn Lozano were formally arrested and charged with murder on February 14th, marking a substantial development in what investigators describe as a rapidly evolving case.

    The recent arrests bring the total number of accused individuals to three, following last week’s detention of Caryl Paul Rodas. Authorities have revealed that the investigation has uncovered connections between Bainton’s killing and another fatal shooting that occurred on the same night. According to police officials, both incidents appear to stem from internal conflicts within local drug trafficking operations.

    Assistant Superintendent Stacy Smith, Staff Officer, provided details on how emerging evidence directly led investigators to Beeks and Lozano. The suspects appeared before Chief Magistrate Deborah Rogers, where they were formally charged with murder. Due to the severity of the charge, neither defendant was permitted to enter a plea in the lower court. Both men have been remanded to prison pending their next court appearance.

    Police characterize the violence as interconnected episodes rather than isolated attacks, suggesting they represent dangerous repercussions of disputes within the narcotics trade. The investigation continues as authorities work to unravel the full scope of the criminal network involved in these incidents.

  • Javaun Moody Arrested Following Caye Caulker Shooting

    Javaun Moody Arrested Following Caye Caulker Shooting

    A swift police response proved critical following a violent shooting incident that disrupted the tranquility of Caye Caulker’s Bahia area on Thursday evening. Authorities were alerted to gunfire around 9:00 PM and immediately mobilized toward the scene, where they encountered a golf cart transporting an injured man to the local clinic.

    The victim, identified as 22-year-old Dominic Castillo, had sustained a gunshot wound to the back and required emergency medical attention before being transferred to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital for further treatment.

    Through subsequent investigation, law enforcement officials identified 29-year-old Javaun Moody as a person of interest. Moody was formally arrested and charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. According to Assistant Superintendent Stacy Smith, officers observed Moody discarding a weapon during pursuit. The recovered firearm was identified as a 9mm pistol containing a magazine with seven live rounds.

    Further search of Moody’s person revealed additional criminal activity, leading to drug possession charges after police discovered a Ziploc bag containing suspected cocaine. Investigators also recovered a .38 caliber revolver with three live rounds from the scene, along with seven expended shell casings.

    All evidence has been submitted to the National Forensic and Science Services Laboratory for ballistic testing and analysis, which will determine possible connections to the shooting incident and potential additional charges against Moody.

    When questioned about the circumstances, ASP Smith indicated that both Moody and the victim appeared to have traveled to the area with “nefarious intentions” and encountered “equal hostility.” The investigation continues to determine whether the recovered .38 revolver belongs to Moody’s group or other involved parties.