Carib Scope

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  • ABEC pays tribute to the late Sir Gerald Watt KC, former Chairman of ABEC

    ABEC pays tribute to the late Sir Gerald Watt KC, former Chairman of ABEC

    The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) has announced the passing of its former chairman, Sir Gerald Watt, KC, who died on December 13, 2025. The commission expressed profound sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and professional associates.

    Sir Gerald’s transformative leadership as ABEC Chairman from 2004 to 2009 fundamentally reshaped the nation’s electoral governance. During this formative period, he established critical administrative structures and operational protocols that became the bedrock of electoral integrity in Antigua and Barbuda. His tenure was characterized by visionary reforms that modernized the commission while strengthening public trust in democratic processes.

    Current Supervisor of Elections Ian S. Hughes emphasized Sir Gerald’s exceptional contributions, noting his ‘principled leadership and sound judgment’ that established robust governance frameworks. ‘His vision and steady counsel laid a strong foundation upon which the Commission continues to build,’ Hughes stated, highlighting the enduring legacy of professionalism and dedication.

    Ambassador Arthur G.B Thomas, current ABEC Chairman, contextualized Sir Gerald’s impact within a challenging political landscape. ‘He joined during a pivotal stage when modern electoral administration was still being defined,’ Thomas remarked, acknowledging how Sir Gerald navigated heightened political polarization through frank dialogue and ethical conviction.

    Renowned for his legal expertise and unwavering impartiality, Sir Gerald became a towering figure in the commission’s history. His approach combined fairness, independence, and profound respect for the rule of law, setting exemplary standards that continue to guide ABEC’s operations. His calm authority and strategic reforms left an indelible mark on electoral administration and democratic governance throughout the nation.

  • Saint Lucian director sees opportunity – and risk – in Netflix’s big move

    Saint Lucian director sees opportunity – and risk – in Netflix’s big move

    The entertainment industry stands at a pivotal juncture as Netflix’s ambitious pursuit of Warner Bros. Discovery threatens to reshape Hollywood’s competitive landscape. This potential acquisition, potentially the most significant in film industry history, would place iconic franchises including Game of Thrones, DC Comics, Harry Potter, and HBO’s prestigious content library under Netflix’s dominion, positioning the streaming service as an unprecedented entertainment omnipotent.

    Amidst this corporate maneuvering, independent filmmakers express both optimism and apprehension. Elijah Anatole, Saint Lucian filmmaker and founder of Artlas Studios, currently negotiating with Netflix for his project ‘Heartfall,’ provides unique perspective on the implications for global indie cinema.

    The acquisition faces substantial hurdles, including Paramount’s competing $108 billion hostile takeover bid and potential antitrust scrutiny from the Justice Department. Political considerations further complicate matters, with former President Trump’s connections to Paramount ownership potentially influencing outcomes.

    Anatole recognizes potential benefits: ‘Netflix already provides independent filmmakers access previously unimaginable through traditional studios. This merger could revolutionize content development, ownership, and global distribution paradigms.’ He cites Netflix’s promotion of African cinema as evidence of their commitment to diverse global voices.

    However, significant concerns regarding market monopoly persist. ‘The danger lies in Netflix gaining excessive market control, potentially leading to increased subscription prices and unfavorable terms for independent creators,’ Anatole cautions. ‘When alternatives disappear, acceptance becomes mandatory.’

    Contrary to hopes for enhanced development programs, Anatole believes streaming giants prioritize finished products over creator development: ‘They seek content that drives subscriptions, not philanthropic initiatives.’ The merger would intensify competition as Netflix gains Warner Bros.’ extensive content library, forcing independents to elevate their production standards.

    Looking forward five years, Anatole predicts Netflix will dominate global entertainment while fundamentally transforming content consumption. ‘Traditional movie theaters may become obsolete as advanced home viewing technologies like VR goggles replace flat screens. COVID-19 permanently altered viewing habits, with few films achieving billion-dollar box office returns recently.’

    Despite challenges, Anatole remains hopeful the merger could stimulate creative opportunities while motivating filmmakers to enhance their craft. As a personal aspiration, he expresses desire for Netflix to revive Zack Snyder’s DC universe alongside James Gunn’s interpretation.

    Independent filmmakers like Anatole are actively shaping cinema’s future rather than observing passively. His upcoming film ‘OMYRA’ has already secured selection for the 2026 Chandler Film Festival, demonstrating indie resilience amid industry consolidation.

  • PM Cup players get major prizes during Flow visit

    PM Cup players get major prizes during Flow visit

    In a significant celebration of sporting excellence and corporate social responsibility, telecommunications leader Flow hosted the newly crowned 2025 Prime Minister’s Cup champions, Weymouth Wales FC, at their Warrens corporate headquarters. The event highlighted the transformative power of sports in community development across Barbados.

    The championship team, guided by Manager Alphonso Lewis, Coach Asquith Howell, Physiotherapist Chantelle Braithwaite, and Captain Hadan Holligan, engaged in productive discussions with Flow’s senior leadership team led by Vice-President and General Manager Desron Bynoe. The gathering also included key members of the Prime Minister’s Cup Organizing Committee, Chairman Omari Eastmond and Marketing Strategist Danielle Toppin.

    Flow demonstrated its substantial commitment through both financial investment and premium technological rewards. The company contributed approximately $30,000 in direct support for tournament activities and player development. Each member of the victorious Weymouth Wales squad received a share of $5,000 in recognition of their championship performance.

    Individual excellence received special acknowledgment with top-tier technology awards. Andre Applewhaite, honored as both Most Valuable Player and Best Defender, received a cutting-edge iPhone 17. Jamarco Johnson from runners-up Kickstart Rush, celebrated as Best Young Player, was presented with a Samsung S25 tablet. The fan community participated in the celebrations as well, with Tibu Johnson winning an Apple iPad through the Flow Fan Prize initiative.

    During the ceremony, Bynoe emphasized the broader significance of the team’s achievement: ‘At a time when our communities need positive examples, what you have achieved shines a bright light. Your undefeated season after last year’s disappointment demonstrates remarkable discipline and character.’ He encouraged the players to ‘remain humble, lift as you climb, and pass your knowledge to younger generations.’

    Shane Archer, Project Manager for the Prime Minister’s Cup, applauded Flow’s ongoing commitment: ‘Flow’s involvement demonstrates how powerfully Corporate Barbados can stand with young athletes. Their investment rewards hard work, uplifts communities, and helps create brighter futures. I urge other businesses to emulate this exemplary model of community support.’

    The partnership represents Flow’s strategic dedication to youth development and community enrichment through sports sponsorship, establishing a benchmark for corporate citizenship in Barbados.

  • Jamaican Cabinet approves additional $42 million to restore small businesses

    Jamaican Cabinet approves additional $42 million to restore small businesses

    The Jamaican government has significantly escalated its financial response to Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, approving a substantial $42 million injection for small business rehabilitation. This emergency funding targets parishes that sustained severe damage when the hurricane struck on October 28, 2025.

    Senator Aubyn Hill, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, detailed the comprehensive recovery plan during a December 5 senate address. The reconstruction initiative will focus on critically affected areas including Middle Quarters in St. Elizabeth, along with designated zones in St. James, Trelawny, and Hanover.

    This latest allocation builds upon previous government support, supplementing a $20 million package approved on November 10 that facilitated restoration of 44 retail establishments in Border, St. Elizabeth. The engineering enhancements incorporate hurricane-resilient designs featuring concrete foundations and specialized roof anchoring systems to withstand future extreme weather events.

    Infrastructure improvements extend to flood mitigation measures, with boulder-and-concrete revetments currently under construction behind commercial properties. The renovation specifications additionally encompass modernized kitchen facilities, customer seating areas, and upgraded bathroom amenities.

    Parallel to structural repairs, the ministry is implementing an emergency power solution through generator distribution to community shops across affected regions. Procurement processes have secured 15 generators thus far, with an additional 25 units in the acquisition phase. The initial deployment prioritized St. James parish, where 11 gasoline-powered generators were distributed to sustain businesses lacking refrigeration capabilities for perishable goods and beverages.

    Comprehensive damage assessments conducted between November 10 and December 1, 2025 identified 1,293 businesses requiring intervention. Notably, evaluations in Accompong Maroon village revealed 25 enterprises needing repairs, with wooden structures completely destroyed and concrete buildings experiencing extensive roof damage. While some establishments maintain partial operations, consistent power access remains critical, prompting the ministry’s ongoing generator installation program to facilitate commercial reactivation.

  • Still making Christmas – even at ‘these prices’

    Still making Christmas – even at ‘these prices’

    Faced with persistently rising supermarket prices, Barbadian families are demonstrating remarkable ingenuity to maintain cherished Christmas traditions while navigating economic pressures. Across the island, households are adopting diverse strategies ranging from home cultivation of ingredients to strategic cross-border shopping, fundamentally redefining their holiday preparations.

    At Popular Discounts in Kendal Hill, a steady flow of shoppers carried essential provisions including meats, fruits, and baking materials, indicating advanced stages of seasonal preparation. This scene reflects a broader trend of resourcefulness becoming essential for holiday celebrations.

    Elsa Marshall, mother of five, exemplifies this adaptive approach through heightened self-sufficiency. “I maintain focus on fundamental necessities,” she explained, noting her commitment to providing homemade cakes and treats despite financial constraints. Her calculus extends beyond immediate savings: “A $50 purchased cake represents three homemade equivalents, plus saved supermarket time and avoided queues – time is money.” Marshall supplements her kitchen with backyard-grown seasonings, though she acknowledges persistent financial strain despite three working adults in her household.

    Budget-conscious strategies vary across households. Ericson Thomas emphasizes comparative shopping across different supermarkets to optimize expenditures, while maintaining traditional menus including ham, chicken, and turkey for expected guests. Heather Bostic adopts a minimalist philosophy, concentrating on essentials while acknowledging ongoing financial obligations. “The extravagance would be a ham,” she remarked with laughter, emphasizing modest vegetable additions and children’s treats without excess.

    Some residents undertake extraordinary measures, with Mrs. Blackett from St John reporting international procurement trips to Canada for more affordable breakfast items and meats. “Overseas shopping reduces costs significantly,” she noted, adding that manageable Customs charges helped mitigate living expenses.

    The tangible impact of inflation emerges through stark comparisons. One elderly shopper documented a $10 increase for identical fruit purchases within a single week, prompting early July preparations to avoid December price surges.

    Despite these challenges, the cultural commitment to Christmas tradition remains unwavering. Michael Beckles, while loading groceries, articulated this resilience: “Certain necessities reflect our inherent traditions. We must procure ingredients for jug jug and traditional dishes. Christmas remains what you make it.” His balanced approach – “a little bit of everything without excess” – captures the prevailing sentiment of determined celebration amid economic adaptation.

    For wheelchair user Yvette Sealy, the season’s essence has shifted toward spiritual significance rather than material display, focusing on church attendance and simple meals while utilizing previous years’ frozen ham.

    This collective response illustrates both the pressures of economic reality and the enduring strength of cultural traditions, as Barbadians creatively preserve Christmas spirit through community resilience and adaptive celebration.

  • New Equipment Arrives to Resume Dredging at Parham and St. John’s Harbours

    New Equipment Arrives to Resume Dredging at Parham and St. John’s Harbours

    The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has acquired specialized heavy-duty dredging equipment to overcome significant geological obstacles that had paralyzed critical harbor development projects. Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced this strategic intervention during his appearance on the ‘Browne and Browne’ show on Pointe FM, revealing that previous dredging attempts at Parham Harbour had been completely halted by impenetrable rock formations and bedrock.

    According to PM Browne, the substantial rock layers proved insurmountable for originally deployed machinery, ultimately compelling even a contracted Dutch dredging firm to withdraw from the project after their equipment failed to perform under the challenging conditions. This operational deadlock left the government with ‘no other choice’ but to procure a more robust mechanical solution capable of fragmenting and extracting the dense geological material.

    The newly acquired dredger, which arrived disassembled, is presently being reconstructed on-site by technical crews. Prime Minister Browne projected that the machine will become operational within approximately one week. In a complementary move, the administration has arranged to lease an additional barge from Guadeloupe within the forthcoming fortnight to bolster the dredging operations.

    Upon activation, work will recommence at Parham Harbour—locally referred to as Crabbs—with subsequent redeployment planned for St. John’s Harbour. PM Browne emphasized that the successful execution of these dredging activities is indispensable for enhancing maritime accessibility and facilitating the progression of associated port infrastructure developments, which are pivotal to the nation’s economic and logistical advancement.

  • PM Says Nation Has Lost a “True Patriot”, Sir Gerald Watt To Receive Official Funeral

    PM Says Nation Has Lost a “True Patriot”, Sir Gerald Watt To Receive Official Funeral

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne has publicly eulogized the late Sir Gerald Watt, former Speaker of the House, characterizing him as an intellectually robust and courageous patriot whose enduring legacy will profoundly shape Antigua and Barbuda’s democratic traditions. During a recent appearance on Pointe FM, Browne expressed profound shock at Sir Gerald’s unexpected passing, which occurred merely days before his 87th birthday, despite reports of his vigorous health.

    The Prime Minister revealed that while their personal acquaintance deepened after 2014, his admiration for Sir Gerald originated from a remarkably lucid and bold article the former Speaker penned in 2000. This initial respect was further fortified through conversations with the late Prime Minister Sir Lester Bird, who consistently praised Sir Gerald as possessing one of the nation’s most brilliant legal intellects.

    Browne particularly emphasized Sir Gerald’s unwavering resolve and intellectual independence during his challenging tenure as head of the Electoral Commission. These sterling qualities ultimately motivated Browne to appoint him as Speaker following the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party’s 2014 electoral triumph. Over his subsequent eleven-year speakership, Sir Gerald demonstrated extraordinary physical vitality, intellectual acuity, and unshakeable principles, frequently adopting controversial stances when convinced of their righteousness.

    Notably, the Prime Minister highlighted Sir Gerald’s distinctive parliamentary management style, marked by both firmness and impartiality. He consistently maintained parliamentary decorum without yielding to political pressures, often confronting ministers and opposition members alike with equal determination. This steadfast approach, while sometimes unsettling for political opponents, fundamentally reflected his profound institutional respect for Parliament itself.

    Although Sir Gerald had previously served under different political banners, Browne observed his remarkable transformation into one of the Labour Party’s most articulate defenders in recent years. This political evolution exemplified the vital importance of integrating talented individuals across ideological spectrums to strengthen national governance structures.

    In extending heartfelt condolences to Sir Gerald’s family, including his son and relatives, Browne proclaimed him “a true patriot” and “a great son of the soil” whose nation-building contributions remain invaluable. The government will accord Sir Gerald an official state funeral, with parliamentary tributes scheduled when the House reconvenes.

    Concurrently, Browne expressed sympathies for the passing of veteran educator Genevieve “Teacher Gen” Smith, grandmother of Minister Anthony Smith Jr., reaffirming his endorsement for renaming Potters Primary School in her honor. While acknowledging the profound loss of both figures, the Prime Minister emphasized that their extensive lives of national service should be celebrated gratefully, with their legacies continuing to inspire forthcoming generations.

  • COMMENTARY: Dominica land of such beauty -The genesis & evolution of a special song (part II)

    COMMENTARY: Dominica land of such beauty -The genesis & evolution of a special song (part II)

    In a remarkable tale of cultural resonance, a Peace Corps volunteer’s 1969 composition has unexpectedly evolved into Dominica’s unofficial national anthem, traversing generations and media formats while capturing the island’s collective heart. Dr. Robert Maguire originally penned ‘Dominica, Land of Such Beauty’ during his service in the Caribbean nation, receiving a mere $25 EC dollars (under $10 USD) as one-time compensation—a document he cherishes as priceless memorabilia.

    The song’s journey began with the Siffleur Montagne Chorale’s recording but gained momentum through unexpected channels. Decades after Maguire left Dominica for graduate studies, he discovered through a colleague in 1993 that his composition had become deeply meaningful to Dominicans, often evoking tears of nostalgia and national pride. This revelation marked the beginning of his awareness of the song’s cultural significance.

    The digital age further propelled the anthem’s reach. In 1998, Maguire learned during a conference visit that Marpin Television had produced a music video set to the original recording. Later, in 2010, his daughter helped upload this video to YouTube, where it has since garnered over 22,789 views by late November 2025, making it accessible to global audiences.

    Parallel revivals emerged through various artistic interpretations. The UK-based Dominican vocal group Sisserou included a cover on their 1997 album ‘Streets of Gold,’ while producer Earl Lawrence preserved the original on a 2006 CD reissue of Siffleur Montagne Chorale recordings. Most innovatively, music producer Cornell Phillip created a steel drum adaptation titled ‘Dominica in Pan’ in 2008, blending cadence-lypso and bouyon genres—a version now routinely used as bumper music on Dominican radio programs.

    The song’s enduring appeal has also reconnected Maguire with lost friends from his Dominican days, including Wilma Bellot-Thomas, who now serves as his ‘Calypso Guru,’ keeping him informed about the island’s musical evolution. Despite generating no substantial royalties, the composition’s true value lies in its emotional impact on Dominicans at home and abroad, serving as a timeless tribute to the island’s natural beauty and cultural spirit that continues to resonate across generations.

  • Writer of Creole national anthem reflects on its origins, significance

    Writer of Creole national anthem reflects on its origins, significance

    In a significant cultural development for the Caribbean nation, Saint Lucia now boasts an officially recognized Kweyol translation of its national anthem, culminating a thirteen-year journey sparked by one man’s dedication to linguistic inclusion. The project originated in 2009 when Wulstan Charles, a Seventh-day Adventist Church Minister and former educator, recognized that substantial portions of the population struggled to comprehend the English lyrics of the national anthem.

    Charles’s awareness of literacy disparities developed through his experiences growing up in various communities across the island and his professional background in education. ‘I became sensitive to the needs of people who are not very literate,’ Charles explained to St Lucia Times. He emphasized that fluency in Kweyol represented its own form of literacy, even for those who couldn’t write the language formally.

    The initiative gained momentum through Charles’s work with Praize FM radio station, where he created and continues to host the bilingual program ‘Your Lesson for Today.’ This platform, delivering content in both Kweyol and English, directly informed his approach to the anthem project. Charles believed that providing a Kweyol translation would ‘clarify meaning’ and ensure no citizen felt excluded from this fundamental expression of national identity.

    The formal process began in 2016 when Charles presented his translation to the Folk Research Centre, where he serves on the Kweyol Literacy Committee. The government subsequently established a review committee chaired by former Governor General Dame Pearlette Louisy, which refined and officially approved the translation. The Kweyol anthem has since been performed at significant events, including a St Lucia Labour Party rally and by school choirs, marking its integration into national life.

    Charles describes the accomplishment as part of a broader collective effort in nation-building. ‘Each person’s role is significant and collectively what we contribute makes all of the difference when we look at the big picture,’ he reflected. Beyond the anthem, Charles sees his work in poetry and radio as continuing conversations about Saint Lucian identity, using Kweyol as a vehicle for cultural preservation and national pride.

  • DNA: Maandag benoeming commissies van rapporteurs 8 wetten

    DNA: Maandag benoeming commissies van rapporteurs 8 wetten

    Suriname’s National Assembly (DNA) has initiated a substantial legislative overhaul this week, marking a significant shift in parliamentary dynamics. During Monday’s procedural session, eight specialized committees were appointed to prepare a comprehensive package of initiative laws for public deliberation.

    The legislative agenda features groundbreaking proposals including constitutional amendments, judicial branch restructuring, elimination of gag laws from the criminal code, and virtually全新的 nature conservation legislation. These measures address fundamental aspects of governance, touching upon rule of law, environmental management, anti-corruption efforts, transparency, and criminal justice reform.

    Notably absent from the agenda is a proposed ban on online gambling, despite its previous submission. Sources indicate divergent views within the coalition have temporarily stalled this socially sensitive matter from entering formal parliamentary discussion.

    The majority of legislative proposals originate from parliamentarians representing the six coalition partners, signaling a strategic move to actively exercise parliamentary initiative rather than relying exclusively on government-sponsored legislation. This approach repositiones the parliament as a proactive legislative center rather than merely a approval body for executive policies.

    Key legislation moving forward includes the Asset Forfeiture of Illegally Obtained Gains Act, Sustainable Nature Management Act, and measures directly impacting judicial structure. Additional proposals concern transparency of administrative information, adjustments to the Labor Advisory Council Act, and amendments to the Criminal Code.

    Thursday’s scheduled public meetings will launch the substantive debate phase, while all initiative proposals have been simultaneously forwarded to the Council of State for advisory review. This extensive legislative package is poised to dominate parliamentary proceedings in the coming period, reflecting the coalition’s concerted effort to drive institutional reforms through parliamentary channels.