Carib Scope

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  • New EBC chair to mull election mission report

    New EBC chair to mull election mission report

    Barbados has ushered in a new era of electoral governance with the appointment of prominent business executive Debra ‘Debbie’ Hughes as Chair of the nation’s Electoral and Boundaries Commission (EBC). The Chief Executive Officer of Needhams Point Development Holdings Inc., the state-owned entity controlling Hilton Barbados Resort, assumes her pivotal role following the February general election, replacing former chair Senior Counsel Ramon Alleyne.

    In an exclusive dialogue with Barbados TODAY, Hughes revealed that her inaugural commission meeting scheduled for next week will prioritize comprehensive electoral reform. The session marks the first convening since the February 11 polls and will initiate critical review processes of the recent electoral exercise.

    “Our preliminary agenda involves meticulous evaluation of the previous election,” Hughes stated. “Subsequently, the commission will establish operational priorities for our three-year term. Prime Minister Mottley’s announcement regarding the formation of an electoral reform commission aligns with our mandate, and we anticipate providing substantive recommendations to this body.”

    While refraining from detailing specific reform measures before formal commission deliberations, Hughes confirmed that recommendations from the CARICOM Observer Mission would receive thorough consideration. Her appointment, effective earlier this month, brings extensive regional electoral experience from multiple Caribbean nations to Barbados’ democratic processes.

    Prime Minister Mia Mottley had acknowledged electoral shortcomings following her swearing-in ceremony, emphasizing the urgent need to modernize election legislation dating back over three decades. In June 2023, Mottley presented transformative proposals to the House of Assembly based on the 2024 Parliamentary Reform Commission report, advocating for constituency expansion and boundary rule revisions.

    The Parliamentary Reform Commission’s key recommendations include increasing House of Assembly seats and maintaining an odd number of parliamentary positions to prevent voting deadlocks, particularly when the Speaker abstains from voting. Mottley simultaneously addressed concerns regarding community disruption caused by boundary demarcations, acknowledging both the opposition leader’s apprehensions and the inherent challenges of continuous electoral evolution.

    The EBC maintains constitutional responsibility for safeguarding electoral integrity through national voter registration and protection of voting rights. The commission’s foundational mission remains the facilitation of transparent, accountable, and democratically sound elections throughout Barbados.

  • Ministry of Health urges students to protect their schools

    Ministry of Health urges students to protect their schools

    Barbados health authorities have issued a stern warning to educational institutions across the island regarding the critical need for proper food waste management to combat rodent and insect infestations. Dr. Kenneth George, the nation’s Chief Medical Officer, has highlighted the severe health and safety risks posed by vermin proliferation within school environments.

    According to Dr. George, negligent disposal practices—including leaving food remnants on desks, floors, and classroom surfaces—create ideal breeding conditions for rats, mice, and cockroaches. The medical expert emphasized that even minimal residues, such as crumbs beneath desks or abandoned lunch items, can initiate extensive infestations that prove both economically burdensome and physically hazardous.

    The health implications are particularly grave: cockroaches are known carriers of bacteria responsible for food poisoning, diarrheal diseases, and allergic responses, while rodents can compromise structural integrity by gnawing through electrical wiring and spread pathogens through surface contamination.

    Health officials have promulgated a four-point protocol for all school occupants:
    1. Discard all food remnants and packaging exclusively in designated receptacles
    2. Immediately seal and dispose of food containers after consumption
    3. Promptly report both overflowing waste bins and pest sightings to administrative staff
    4. Actively promote cleanliness awareness among peers

    Dr. George concluded that collective adherence to these measures would fundamentally eliminate the ecological niche that sustains pest populations in educational facilities, thereby safeguarding community health.

  • New drivers for Barbados Rally2 Championship

    New drivers for Barbados Rally2 Championship

    The Barbados Rally Club’s (BRC) Shakedown Stages this Sunday will witness defending champion Jeff Panton commencing his title defense against a significantly transformed competitive landscape. The two-time Rally2 titleholder, who clinched last year’s championship by a narrow two-point margin over Jamaican rival Kyle Gregg, now confronts an influx of both international newcomers and returning local legends.

    This year’s Rally2 category showcases remarkable depth and diversity. Britain’s Rob Swann, who secured third place last season in his Skoda Fabia Rally2 evo, returns alongside three newly confirmed international entrants for BCIC Rally Barbados 2026. The category gains substantial experience with the additions of former local class champions Brian Gill and Mark Thompson. Gill, who twice won the BRC Group N title in the early 2000s before returning in a BMW M3 after many years absent, now pilots the ex-Mark Maloney Skoda Fabia Rally2 evo.

    Thompson, known for consistently challenging Rally2 and WRC competitors in his Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX, makes his highly anticipated debut in the ex-Paul Horton Citroen C3 Rally2. Meanwhile, rising star Adam Mallalieu, who celebrates his 22nd birthday this week, demonstrates formidable potential with his new Ford Fiesta Rally2 machinery. The former Caribbean junior karting champion recently claimed his first Rally2 victory at the Vaucluse Raceway Motorsport Club double-header just ten days after his new vehicle arrived on the island.

    The 2024 champion Josh Read, now fully acclimated to his ex-Osian Pryce Fiesta Rally2 after missing last season’s start, remains a strong contender following his recent performance where he and Panton were separated by merely three-hundredths of a second at the Motoring Club Barbados Inc’s Spring Blaze 26.

    Completing the impressive roster is Stuart Maloney, the inaugural R5 crown winner in 2022, who returns despite not rallying on the island since retiring from BCIC RB25. He has demonstrated strong form with second and fifth place finishes at Brands Hatch and Donington Park in the UK’s Circuit Rally Championship. His brother Mark has upgraded to a Fabia RS Rally2 similar to Stuart’s, which has been completely re-shelled following an accident.

    BMF Vice-President and Sport and Championship coordinator David Williams noted: ‘This year represents a changing of the guard. We extend our gratitude to Stan Hartling, his son Ben, and Paul Horton of the Turks & Caicos Rally Team for their longstanding support of this championship and island motorsport.’

    Notably absent this year is Senator Andrew Mallalieu, who has retired from competitive sport after 45 years following injuries sustained in an accident during BCIC RB25. He and co-driver Geoff Goddard have decided to focus exclusively on sports development.

    Provisional 2026 R5/Rally2 entries feature an international field including competitors from Jamaica, England, and the United States, ensuring one of the most competitive seasons in Barbados rally history.

  • Petville Gets $950K Water Generator Facility

    Petville Gets $950K Water Generator Facility

    The Orange Walk District witnessed a significant enhancement to its water infrastructure system on March 26, 2026, with the simultaneous inauguration of two critical projects totaling $1.7 million. The developments mark part of Belize Water Services’ 25th-anniversary initiatives aimed at improving water security and distribution reliability.

    In Petville Village, a state-of-the-art backup generator facility valued at $950,000 commenced operations following an official ribbon-cutting ceremony. The installation ensures continuous water supply during power interruptions, benefiting residents in Petville and surrounding urban areas. Prime Minister John Briceño, alongside Orange Walk Central Area Representative Michel Chebat and Orange Walk Town Mayor Ladrick Sheppard, presided over the inauguration.

    Prime Minister Briceño emphasized the fundamental importance of water security during his address: “We often overlook the essential services that form the bedrock of our daily existence. While we might manage without electricity, water remains absolutely indispensable. Though it may sound conventional, water truly constitutes the essence of life itself.”

    The same morning featured a second inauguration ceremony for a newly constructed elevated storage tank on Arthur Street, representing a $750,000 investment. Minister of Health and Orange Walk East Area Representative Kevin Bernard joined Mayor Sheppard and Minister Chebat for the commissioning. The infrastructure project is designed to stabilize water pressure and ensure consistent distribution, particularly during peak consumption periods.

    Mayor Sheppard commented on the project’s significance: “This strategic investment substantially advances the reliability and sustainability of our water distribution network, addressing long-standing challenges in water accessibility for our community.”

    The dual projects reflect the government’s continued commitment to upgrading essential public utilities and improving quality of life for Belizean citizens through critical infrastructure modernization.

  • Barbados’ poet laureate takes centre stage at the United Nations

    Barbados’ poet laureate takes centre stage at the United Nations

    In a powerful address to the United Nations General Assembly, Barbados’ inaugural Poet Laureate Esther Phillips issued a compelling challenge to the international community, urging concrete action on reparations for the historical atrocities of the transatlantic slave trade. The special session, convened on Wednesday to mark the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, featured Phillips’ poignant recitation of two original poems before representatives from all 193 member states.

    Appointed in March 2018 to celebrate and advance Barbados’ literary heritage, Phillips—an accomplished poet, educator, and editor—delivered her address at the personal invitation of Assembly President Annalena Baerbock. Her appearance underscored the growing momentum behind reparations movements within international diplomatic circles.

    The session culminated in a significant diplomatic achievement as the General Assembly adopted a landmark resolution spearheaded by Ghana and co-sponsored by Barbados alongside more than sixty nations. This historic document formally classifies the trafficking of enslaved Africans and the systematic racialized enslavement of African people as crimes against humanity.

    Through this resolution, the Assembly explicitly acknowledged the critical necessity of addressing historical injustices perpetrated against Africans and their descendants worldwide. It further emphasized that reparations claims constitute essential, tangible measures for rectifying these profound historical wrongs, signaling a potential turning point in global discussions about historical accountability and restorative justice.

  • Court Denies UPP Injunction Against Randy Baltimore

    Court Denies UPP Injunction Against Randy Baltimore

    In a significant legal development for Antigua and Barbuda’s political landscape, the High Court has rejected an injunction sought by the United Progressive Party (UPP) challenging the electoral victory of Randy Baltimore in the St. Philip’s North constituency. This ruling represents a major triumph for the incumbent Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP), which had vigorously defended the legitimacy of Baltimore’s election.

    Samantha Marshall, ABLP Vice-chairman and lead attorney for Baltimore’s legal defense team, hailed the judicial decision as a victory for democratic representation. Marshall clarified that while the injunction was denied, the substantive petition questioning the election’s validity would be adjudicated at a future court-determined date. She emphasized the importance of maintaining parliamentary representation for constituents during the legal process.

    The ABLP leadership characterized the court’s decision as validation of the electorate’s clear mandate. Party officials stated that Baltimore can now continue his legislative duties without interruption, focusing on development projects and constituency services that benefit St. Philip’s North residents. The party reaffirmed its commitment to democratic principles and rule of law while celebrating this procedural victory.

    This legal outcome strengthens the ABLP’s position in parliament and reinforces their electoral mandate in the constituency. The party expressed gratitude to supporters and vowed to continue implementing initiatives aimed at improving quality of life for all constituents, with eyes already turning toward upcoming electoral contests where they hope to reaffirm their popular support.

  • Tinubu receives St Kitts Prime Minister at Aso Rock – TheCitizen – It’s all about you

    Tinubu receives St Kitts Prime Minister at Aso Rock – TheCitizen – It’s all about you

    ABUJA, NIGERIA – Nigerian President Bola Tinubu hosted Prime Minister Terrance Drew of St. Kitts and Nevis in a significant diplomatic engagement at Aso Rock Presidential Villa on Thursday evening. The high-level meeting, which commenced at approximately 6:00 PM local time, marked the second bilateral discussion between the two leaders within a year, following their initial March 2025 summit.

    The State House media office confirmed the diplomatic encounter through an official statement and photographic evidence released Thursday evening. While specific details of the current discussions remain undisclosed, the meeting continues the trajectory of enhanced cooperation established during their previous engagement.

    The March 2025 dialogue between President Tinubu and Prime Minister Drew focused on expanding bilateral relations across multiple sectors including agricultural development, energy security, logistical infrastructure, and trade enhancement. During that previous meeting, Prime Minister Drew emphasized the Caribbean region’s strong interest in forging deeper connections with Nigeria, referring to Africa as “the motherland” and highlighting shared historical and cultural ties.

    Prime Minister Drew had previously articulated his administration’s commitment to achieving food sovereignty and revealed ongoing negotiations with several Nigerian corporations to explore collaborative ventures throughout the Caribbean region. President Tinubu characterized these diplomatic efforts as a strategic opportunity for African nations to broaden their international partnerships and consolidate bilateral relationships.

    The two nations maintain formal diplomatic relations through their membership in several international organizations including the Commonwealth of Nations and the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States. Despite these formal ties, neither country currently operates a resident embassy in the other’s capital, with diplomatic accreditation managed through multilateral missions in New York and London.

    According to United Nations COMTRADE statistics, current bilateral trade volumes between Nigeria and St. Kitts and Nevis remain modest, valued at under $500,000 annually. This latest high-level meeting signals potential for substantial growth in economic and diplomatic cooperation between the African economic powerhouse and the Caribbean nation.

    The summit occurs within the context of Nigeria’s expanding engagement with Caribbean Community (CARICOM) members, highlighted by President Tinubu’s landmark visit to St. Lucia in June 2025 – the first official engagement between a Nigerian head of state and CARICOM leadership.

  • PM Briceño Clashes with Opposition Leader in Budget Debate Finale

    PM Briceño Clashes with Opposition Leader in Budget Debate Finale

    In a dramatic conclusion to Belize’s three-day budget deliberations, Prime Minister John Briceño engaged in a fiery exchange with Opposition Leader Tracy Panton during Wednesday’s parliamentary session. The Prime Minister launched scathing criticisms against Panton’s budgetary analysis capabilities, characterizing her presentation as substantively deficient.

    Briceño asserted that while his administration provided comprehensive details regarding Plan Belize 2.0’s implementation and future trajectory, the opposition leader delivered what he termed a ‘protracted, desiccated monologue devoid of meaningful scrutiny.’ He further accused Panton of inadequate preparation and attempting to ‘misrepresent and contort factual information’ regarding the national budget proposal.

    The parliamentary atmosphere intensified notably when Briceño referenced Panton’s disability in his critique, suggesting her ‘deficiency manifests in an incapacity to conduct proper analysis and propose viable alternatives, thereby revealing her unsuitability for national leadership.’ This remark prompted immediate objections from the opposition bench.

    The contentious session concluded late Wednesday evening, with further comprehensive coverage scheduled for News 5 Live’s evening broadcast. The debate highlighted deepening political divisions regarding Belize’s fiscal policy direction and governance standards.

  • Renaming of former Convent of the Good Shepherd as Waveney Benjamin Building

    Renaming of former Convent of the Good Shepherd as Waveney Benjamin Building

    In a solemn ceremony blending spiritual reverence with community recognition, the Anglican Diocese of Guyana has permanently immortalized the legacy of women’s rights advocate Waveney Benjamin through architectural dedication. The former Convent of the Good Shepherd at the Queenstown intersection of Lance Gibbs and Oronoque Streets now officially bears the name The Waveney Benjamin Building, housing the Mothers’ Union Day Care Centre that she helped establish.

    The ceremonial redesignation occurred during Evening Prayer services on March 25, 2026—a date carrying profound symbolic significance. Presided over by The Right Reverend Charles Davidson, Bishop of Guyana, the event gathered clergy, Mothers’ Union representatives, and community members in a collective tribute to Benjamin’s transformative social work.

    Reverend Mother Wendell Roberts, former MU president, delivered a commemorative address highlighting Benjamin’s nineteen-year tenure as Diocesan Worker. Her pioneering efforts expanded the organization’s reach across Guyana’s diverse regions, including remote hinterland communities. Beyond geographical expansion, Benjamin’s visionary leadership materialized through the creation of the Mothers’ Union’s inaugural daycare facility—an institution sustaining early childhood education for over thirty years.

    The temporal alignment of the ceremony revealed multiple layers of significance: March 25th marked both Benjamin’s original MU membership date and the liturgical observance of Lady Day within the Anglican tradition. Serendipitously, the date also coincided with Bishop Davidson’s ordination anniversary, creating a multidimensional celebration of spiritual service.

    The late Mrs. Benjamin, spouse of Major the Reverend Canon Neil Benjamin, extended her humanitarian commitments beyond the Mothers’ Union to various Anglican and interdenominational initiatives. Pending final architectural renovations, formal commemorative plaques will be installed to permanently designate the building that now eternally honors her community legacy.

  • Nadia Caliz Secures Second Term as BNTU President

    Nadia Caliz Secures Second Term as BNTU President

    In a remarkable demonstration of organizational unity, Nadia Caliz has been unanimously endorsed for a second consecutive term as President of the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU). The decisive endorsement occurred during the union’s national convention held at Belize City’s Civic Center on March 26, 2026.

    Caliz’s continuation in leadership resulted from an absence of challengers, with no other candidates submitting applications for the presidential position. “We were scheduled to elect new leadership, but I remained the sole applicant. Consequently, I will receive official endorsement for another two-year mandate,” Caliz stated during the proceedings.

    The convention witnessed unprecedented participation, with Caliz reporting record-breaking attendance figures. “This year’s convention has drawn significantly more members than last year’s gathering in Punta Gorda. We have approximately two thousand members in attendance—an unprecedented turnout in our union’s history. This overwhelming participation represents a tremendous achievement,” she announced.

    The assembly operated under the thematic framework “Standing Resilient, Building Bridges and United for Transformative Change.” Caliz emphasized the convention’s critical role in shaping the union’s strategic direction, noting that delegates would examine financial matters, establish organizational priorities, and provide platforms for member feedback regarding professional challenges.

    “This convention serves as our primary decision-making venue,” Caliz explained. “We are reviewing financial operations, determining our strategic trajectory, and creating forums where members can voice concerns and experiences—all essential components of our transformative agenda.”

    The BNTU convention represents Belize’s most significant gathering of educational professionals, bringing together teachers from across the nation to collaboratively address issues affecting the education sector and formulate collective advocacy strategies.