作者: admin

  • PHOTOS: Drain, Waterway and Roadside Cleaning Continues in Cashew Hill

    PHOTOS: Drain, Waterway and Roadside Cleaning Continues in Cashew Hill

    Municipal maintenance teams are currently executing comprehensive infrastructure improvements throughout Cashew Hill, focusing on critical drainage and waterway systems. These operational activities form part of a sustained initiative targeting enhanced stormwater management and flood risk reduction throughout the community.

    Crews are systematically conducting drainage channel clearing operations, removing accumulated debris and sediment that could potentially impede water flow during heavy precipitation events. Concurrent roadside cleaning efforts ensure transportation routes remain unobstructed and safe for both pedestrian and vehicular traffic.

    The multi-faceted approach addresses both immediate maintenance needs and long-term resilience planning. By maintaining optimal functionality of drainage infrastructure, authorities aim to significantly diminish flooding vulnerabilities that have historically affected the area during seasonal weather patterns.

    This proactive maintenance strategy reflects the local government’s commitment to public safety and infrastructure durability. Residents and commuters can expect continued improvements in water management systems and roadway conditions as these essential works progress through scheduled phases.

  • PWA donates stove to support Police Youth Intervention Department

    PWA donates stove to support Police Youth Intervention Department

    In a significant demonstration of institutional solidarity, the Police Welfare Association (PWA) has delivered a substantial contribution to the Youth Intervention Department, amplifying its operational capacity to serve at-risk youth populations. This strategic donation, formally presented on behalf of the Police Commissioner, received high-level recognition for its potential to enhance community safety initiatives.

    The Commissioner of Police expressed profound appreciation for the PWA’s executive committee, characterizing their support as instrumental to advancing the department’s critical mission. “This contribution genuinely heartens me,” the Commissioner stated. “Beyond providing practical assistance to our dedicated staff, it directly benefits the young individuals who receive daily mentorship through our programs.”

    Specializing in preventative social work, the Youth Intervention Department maintains focused engagement with vulnerable youth through structured guidance programs and positive activity initiatives. Their evidence-based approach aims to divert young people from criminal pathways while promoting constructive personal development and future opportunities.

    Law enforcement officials emphasize that this donation exemplifies the strengthened collaborative framework between the PWA and police services. This partnership model prioritizes youth-oriented crime prevention strategies alongside broader community resilience projects. Police leadership acknowledges that such cross-institutional cooperation remains fundamental to developing more effective social programs that ultimately create safer, more cohesive communities.

  • “Big Baby’ Miller Loses Wig Mid-Fight

    “Big Baby’ Miller Loses Wig Mid-Fight

    In an unforgettable spectacle at New York’s Madison Square Garden on Saturday night, heavyweight contender Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller created a viral moment that overshadowed his actual boxing performance. During his bout against Kingsley Ibeh, an unexpected incident in the second round captured global attention when Miller’s hairpiece spectacularly dislodged from his scalp following a right uppercut from his opponent.

    The arena erupted in a mixture of gasps and laughter as the toupee dramatically launched backward, revealing a temporary bald patch. Demonstrating remarkable composure, Miller completed the round without hesitation before discarding the hairpiece entirely between rounds, hurling it into the audience. The piece was subsequently caught by British heavyweight Fabio Wardley, adding another layer to the unusual occurrence.

    Miller ultimately secured victory via split decision against Ibeh, celebrating his win by humorously rubbing his exposed scalp in the ring. The 37-year-old boxer of Belizean heritage later addressed the incident with characteristic humor, stating: “I’m a comedian. You have to make fun of yourself.” He attributed the hair loss to an unfortunate pre-fight mishap involving ammonia bleach mistakenly used as shampoo days earlier.

    The bizarre episode instantly dominated social media platforms, transforming what would have been a routine boxing match into an internet sensation that transcended the sport’s traditional audience.

  • Laura Fernández wins Costa Rica presidency

    Laura Fernández wins Costa Rica presidency

    Costa Rica has elected Laura Fernández of the governing conservative Sovereign People’s Party as its new president in a decisive first-round victory. The 39-year-old former chief of staff secured approximately 48% of the vote with over 88% of ballots counted, comfortably exceeding the 40% threshold required to avoid a runoff election.

    Fernández’s triumph reflects the electorate’s growing concerns about escalating crime rates in a nation traditionally considered one of Central America’s safest havens. Her campaign centered on strengthening the hardline security policies of outgoing President Rodrigo Chaves, who personally selected her as his political successor.

    The president-elect has committed to implementing states of emergency in regions dominated by transnational gangs and completing construction of a high-security prison modeled after El Salvador’s Cecot facility. Fernández emphasized that her security approach would remain firmly grounded in constitutional principles while addressing the drug-related violence that dominated campaign discussions.

    In her victory address, Fernández promised to govern through “dialogue and national harmony” while continuing her predecessor’s policies. She simultaneously criticized opposition parties for parliamentary obstructionism. Her party secured a legislative majority with 30 of 57 seats, providing stronger congressional support than President Chaves enjoyed during his term.

    Fernández is anticipated to maintain Costa Rica’s close diplomatic relationship with the United States, particularly regarding migration control and anti-narcotics cooperation. She will become the nation’s second female president when sworn in on May 8, following Laura Chinchilla’s 2010-2014 administration.

  • Brunswijk: onafhankelijkheid pg mag niet worden uitgehold

    Brunswijk: onafhankelijkheid pg mag niet worden uitgehold

    In a significant parliamentary address today, Ronnie Brunswijk, Vice-Chairman of Suriname’s National Assembly and leader of the ABOP faction, issued a stern warning regarding proposed reforms to the country’s Public Prosecution Service. The prominent politician asserted that current legislative proposals risk undermining the independent position of the Attorney General, potentially compromising the nation’s judicial integrity.

    Brunswijk, serving on the committee of rapporteurs, articulated deep concerns during the parliamentary debate about measures that would weaken existing safeguards surrounding the appointment, authority, and continuity of the Attorney General’s position. He emphasized that the Public Prosecution Service was deliberately structured as a single, hierarchical entity led by a lifetime-appointed Attorney General specifically to shield prosecution decisions from political interference.

    The proposed elimination of institutional filters in the Attorney General’s appointment process drew particular criticism, with Brunswijk highlighting how such changes could jeopardize the legitimacy, authority, and internal stability of the entire prosecutorial system. While acknowledging the necessity of judicial reform, the parliamentarian insisted that changes to the judicial system and Public Prosecution Service must be approached comprehensively rather than through fragmented legislative proposals.

    Additional concerns were raised regarding proposals to lower the retirement age for Public Prosecution Service members and measures that would place time pressure on the Court of Justice during appointment advisory processes. Brunswijk argued these changes would undermine institutional continuity, experience, and balance within the judicial framework.

    Although expressing support for the introduction of cassation jurisprudence, the ABOP leader cautioned that essential choices regarding supervision, composition, and competencies remain inadequately anchored in the proposed reforms. He further questioned the establishment of a College of Attorneys General, suggesting this structure is ill-suited to Suriname’s scale and could create ambiguous responsibilities.

    Brunswijk concluded by calling for judicial reforms to incorporate lessons from other legal systems, emphasizing that respect for independence, political restraint, and clear division of responsibilities must form the foundation of any constitutional democracy.

  • Guyana, Belize to sign agreements on tourism, agriculture, technology

    Guyana, Belize to sign agreements on tourism, agriculture, technology

    In a significant move to strengthen regional cooperation, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nations of Guyana and Belize have announced a comprehensive partnership agreement spanning tourism development, agricultural collaboration, and technological advancement. The landmark announcement was made by Belizean Prime John Briceño during a joint session of the National Assembly attended by Guyanese President Irfaan Ali as part of his official state visit.

    Prime Minister Briceño revealed that Belize will extend its expertise in tourism development to assist Guyana in building its tourism infrastructure, capitalizing on their shared geographical similarities as countries with abundant water resources. In reciprocity, Guyana will provide technological assistance to support Belize’s digital transformation initiatives, leveraging Guyanese experience in digitization processes.

    The agricultural sector forms a critical component of the new partnership, with both nations committing to combined efforts in achieving CARICOM’s food security objectives. The leaders emphasized the importance of utilizing the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas as the legal framework for facilitating free movement of agricultural goods within the regional bloc. Both countries, which share historical economic foundations in sugar production dating back to colonial eras, pledged to guarantee regional sugar supplies through refined sugar production facilities being established in both nations with American investment partnerships.

    Multiple Memoranda of Understanding are scheduled for signing, covering diverse sectors including education, tourism, digitization, and agricultural cooperation. President Ali emphasized the necessity of removing artificial trade barriers and establishing fair trading systems while advocating for substantial investments in human, financial, and technological resources to achieve regional food security leadership.

    The agreements represent a strategic alignment between two CARICOM members with complementary strengths, creating frameworks for knowledge sharing, private sector investment facilitation, and mutual economic benefit through structured collaboration across key socioeconomic sectors.

  • Iran Considers Talks with U.S. to Ease Tensions

    Iran Considers Talks with U.S. to Ease Tensions

    In a significant diplomatic development, Iran’s foreign ministry confirmed on Monday that it is actively evaluating conditions for potential negotiations with the United States. This announcement comes amid heightened military posturing and suggests a possible breakthrough in the longstanding diplomatic stalemate between the two nations.

    According to Reuters, preliminary discussions are underway for a high-level meeting between U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, with Turkey emerging as the likely venue for these talks within the coming week.

    The diplomatic overtures occur against a backdrop of escalating regional tensions. The United States Navy has substantially reinforced its presence near Iranian territorial waters following last month’s violent suppression of anti-government protests within Iran. President Donald Trump has simultaneously issued warnings about potential military intervention while continuing to pressure Tehran to return to nuclear agreement negotiations.

    Previously disclosed preconditions from the Trump administration include three central demands: complete cessation of uranium enrichment activities, limitations on Iran’s ballistic missile program, and termination of support for regional armed groups. Iranian officials have historically rejected these conditions as violations of national sovereignty, though recent statements suggest potential flexibility regarding uranium enrichment levels while maintaining firm opposition to constraints on their missile capabilities.

    Regional mediators, particularly Turkey, are actively encouraging both nations to pursue diplomatic solutions. Turkish officials emphasize that renewed dialogue could serve as a critical mechanism for de-escalation and potentially avert further military confrontation in the volatile region.

  • Antigua and Barbuda to Attend Commonwealth Law Ministers Meeting in Fiji

    Antigua and Barbuda to Attend Commonwealth Law Ministers Meeting in Fiji

    Legal representatives from across the Commonwealth will assemble in Nadi, Fiji from February 9-12, 2026, for a crucial ministerial meeting addressing the global deterioration of rule of law principles. The gathering will bring together law ministers and attorneys general to confront mounting concerns about how weakening legal frameworks undermine democratic institutions, economic stability, and public security.

    The conference, chaired by Fiji’s Minister for Justice and Acting Attorney General Siromi Turaga, will operate under the thematic banner “Anchoring Justice in a Changing Tide: Strengthening the Rule of Law for a Resilient Future.” Delegates will examine mechanisms through which robust legal systems can safeguard democratic rights, ensure equitable economic opportunities, and build more secure communities.

    Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey emphasized the growing global pressures on judicial integrity, noting that ordinary citizens bear the heaviest burden when legal protections become compromised or inconsistently applied. “Our focus remains on cooperative solutions and tangible actions,” Botchwey stated, “particularly those shielding vulnerable populations from emerging challenges like climate change.”

    The agenda will incorporate diverse perspectives through side events featuring youth leaders, individuals with direct justice system experience, and disability rights advocates. Anticipated outcomes include concrete commitments to enhance access to justice and fortify legal institutions worldwide.

    These deliberations are expected to directly inform discussions at the forthcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, scheduled to be hosted by Antigua and Barbuda later this year.

  • UDP Condemns US Pressure to Choke Cuba as “Collective Punishment”

    UDP Condemns US Pressure to Choke Cuba as “Collective Punishment”

    Regional political forces are mobilizing against renewed United States efforts to sever Cuba’s energy supply lines, with opposition figures condemning the strategy as humanitarian coercion. Tracy Panton, a prominent opposition leader, characterized Washington’s pressure campaign to disrupt oil shipments to Havana as an act of ‘collective punishment’ that threatens devastating civilian consequences.

    The emerging confrontation escalated over the weekend when former US President Donald Trump publicly urged regional fuel suppliers to terminate petroleum exports to Cuba. This directive targets the island nation’s most critical infrastructure needs, potentially crippling healthcare systems, water purification facilities, food refrigeration networks, and transportation services.

    Panton emphasized that energy deprivation strategies inherently lack precision, arguing that ‘measures designed to cut off an entire population from power resources constitute indiscriminate collective punishment rather than targeted sanctions.’ The political leader warned that normalizing such coercive tactics creates dangerous precedents that could eventually threaten other nations.

    Mexico, currently serving as Cuba’s primary petroleum provider, confirmed Sunday its commitment to delivering humanitarian assistance while advocating for diplomatic resolution. Panton urged Belize to join regional allies in demanding negotiated solutions that prioritize civilian protection, stating that ‘political disputes must never be pursued through policies that risk mass human suffering.’

    The opposition leader called for coordinated action through the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) framework while reaffirming solidarity with both Cuban citizens and government institutions. This developing situation highlights growing regional resistance to extraterritorial sanctions policies and sets the stage for renewed diplomatic tensions in the Western Hemisphere.

  • Public Works Urges Motorists to “Respect the Cones” as Road Upgrades Continue Across Antigua and Barbuda

    Public Works Urges Motorists to “Respect the Cones” as Road Upgrades Continue Across Antigua and Barbuda

    The Public Works Department of Antigua and Barbuda has launched a renewed public safety campaign, imploring motorists to ‘Respect the Cones’ as extensive national road enhancement initiatives progress. This urgent appeal follows a troubling pattern of safety equipment tampering, including the unauthorized relocation and theft of traffic cones, alongside vehicles trespassing onto freshly laid road surfaces before they have properly cured.

    Department officials emphasize that traffic management devices are deployed with precise strategic intent to safeguard both the traveling populace and construction personnel. Their displacement jeopardizes public safety, risks structural damage to uncured concrete and drying asphalt, and can lead to significant delays in project timelines, ultimately impacting national infrastructure development.

    The campaign outlines critical guidelines for public cooperation:
    – Traffic cones must remain undisturbed in their designated positions.
    – Barricaded areas, clearly marked as hazardous, must be strictly avoided by both pedestrians and drivers.
    – All instructions from road construction crews must be followed without exception.
    – Motorists are reminded that the curing process for new pavement cannot be visually assessed and requires a mandated drying period.

    The government expresses sincere appreciation for citizen compliance, underscoring that collective adherence to these protocols is fundamental to the successful and timely modernization of the nation’s transportation network.