Carib Scope

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  • Amery: PM must explain US coalition

    Amery: PM must explain US coalition

    Opposition Senator Dr. Amery Browne has launched a substantive challenge against Trinidad and Tobago’s international security commitments, demanding clarity on the nation’s participation in the U.S.-led Shield of the Americas coalition. During a People’s National Movement press conference at the Opposition Office in Port of Spain, Browne highlighted that the public first learned of this arrangement through August 2025 announcements by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who identified T&T among Caribbean and Latin American partners combating narcotics trafficking toward the United States.

    Browne pressed Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar to clarify whether her recent reference to a coalition aligns with the previously announced initiative. He emphasized that this inquiry extends beyond academic interest, noting significant regional developments since the initial announcement. The senator further questioned whether the agreement underwent proper scrutiny by the Attorney General, Cabinet review, or received vetting from relevant ministers, specifically mentioning Minister Sobers’ potential advisory role.

    Critical issues raised include the apparent exclusion of drug source nations like Colombia, Peru, and Mexico from the coalition framework. Browne framed these concerns as ultimately reflecting a fundamental question of public trust in the government’s decision-making authority on behalf of Trinidad and Tobago’s citizens.

    The political controversy expanded to include foreign policy alignment, with Browne noting widespread concern among citizens, government members, and Muslim communities regarding the administration’s support of U.S.-Israeli military actions against Iran. He referenced how two Muslim government members—Senator David Nakhid and Minister Saddam Hosein—have publicly distanced themselves from the Foreign Ministry’s February 28 statement endorsing U.S. and Israeli operations in Iran and expressing solidarity with affected Gulf states.

    Browne concluded with a historical challenge, demanding evidence of any previous T&T government issuing official support for warfare in sovereign nations without United Nations Security Council authorization.

  • Video shows moment woman flung in hit-and-run

    Video shows moment woman flung in hit-and-run

    Authorities in California are actively pursuing the driver of a black Nissan Navara involved in a severe hit-and-run collision on Tuesday evening that left a Venezuelan national seriously injured. The incident unfolded at approximately 10:30 p.m. along the bustling Southern Main Road commercial corridor.

    According to security footage obtained from multiple local businesses, the sequence of events began when the Nissan Navara violently collided with another vehicle. This initial impact propelled the second car into a pedestrian, a local resident from nearby Sanford Street, who was walking in front of the Zheng Zheng Hao Supermarket. The force of the collision threw the victim several feet across the supermarket’s parking lot.

    Bystanders and local workers immediately rushed to aid the injured woman, who sustained head trauma and a fractured right arm. Emergency services transported her to a medical facility for treatment. Despite the rapid community response, the driver responsible for the initial collision fled the scene before law enforcement arrived.

    Water vendor Andrew Ashton, who witnessed the aftermath, revealed to reporters that he and his family had narrowly avoided being caught in the incident themselves. ‘We heard the tremendous impact just seconds after passing that exact spot,’ Ashton recounted. ‘I attempted to flag down the driver—a bald man wearing glasses—but he accelerated away despite apparent vehicle damage.’

    Ashton expressed deep concern about recurring traffic dangers in the area, noting this marked at least the second serious incident and referencing a previous fatal pavement accident. The frequency of such events has prompted local street vendors to reconsider their working locations for safety reasons.

    The eyewitness issued a heartfelt appeal both to the fleeing motorist and to the broader driving community: ‘I urge this driver to surrender to authorities and take responsibility for compensating this woman and her family. More broadly, all motorists must demonstrate greater care and courtesy toward pedestrians. We must work collectively to keep our communities safe.’

    Law enforcement officials are examining multiple security recordings as part of their investigation and have requested public assistance in identifying the suspect. Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact police at 555, 999, or 911, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-TIPS (8477).

  • Taiwan ICDF and the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis signed the Green Energy Transition Demonstration Project

    Taiwan ICDF and the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis signed the Green Energy Transition Demonstration Project

    In a significant move to advance sustainable energy infrastructure, the International Cooperation and Development Fund (TaiwanICDF) has formalized a partnership with the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis through the signing of the Green Energy Transition Demonstration Project. The agreement, executed on March 9th, 2026, marks a strategic collaboration between the two island nations to address shared energy challenges.

    The signing ceremony featured high-level representation from both parties, with Hon. Minister Konris Maynard signing on behalf of Saint Kitts and Nevis and Deputy Secretary General Alex L. J. Shyy representing TaiwanICDF. This initiative builds upon existing developmental work conducted by TaiwanICDF in the Caribbean nation.

    The comprehensive project encompasses multiple critical components designed to strengthen national energy resilience. Technical assistance will include detailed power grid capacity analysis, specialized advisory services for energy policy development, and the establishment of a sophisticated smart microgrid demonstration system. These measures aim to significantly enhance renewable energy integration capabilities while fortifying the overall stability of the energy infrastructure.

    Both Taiwan and Saint Kitts and Nevis, as island nations, confront similar vulnerabilities regarding energy security and climate change impacts. This partnership facilitates the transfer of Taiwan’s advanced expertise in information and communication technologies (ICT) and renewable energy systems to support sustainable development objectives. The collaboration represents a practical model for South-South cooperation in green technology transfer and climate adaptation strategies, potentially serving as a blueprint for other small island developing states seeking energy transformation.

  • Abinader honors Minerva Mirabal’s legacy on centennial of her birth

    Abinader honors Minerva Mirabal’s legacy on centennial of her birth

    SALCEDO, Dominican Republic – President Luis Abinader presided over solemn centennial celebrations Thursday honoring revolutionary icon Minerva Mirabal, whose courageous resistance against Rafael Trujillo’s dictatorship continues to inspire democratic values nationwide. The commemorative events, held in Hermanas Mirabal Province, recognized Mirabal’s profound impact on the nation’s political evolution and her enduring symbol of freedom.

    During the ceremonial gathering, President Abinader unveiled an extensive year-long program of national and international activities designed to perpetuate Mirabal’s legacy. The president characterized her as both a visionary leader and fearless activist whose revolutionary actions fundamentally catalyzed democratic transformation in the Dominican Republic.

    In a poignant prelude to the main ceremony, President Abinader, accompanied by First Lady Raquel Arbaje and government officials, placed a commemorative wreath at the Mirabal Sisters House Museum – the final resting place of the three assassinated siblings. The president emphasized how Minerva maintained unwavering commitment to her ideals despite enduring severe persecution and imprisonment under the oppressive regime.

    Historical records document Minerva Mirabal’s pivotal role alongside her husband Manuel Aurelio Tavárez Justo in the clandestine June 14th Revolutionary Movement, where she operated under the codename ‘La Mariposa’ (The Butterfly). Her tragic assassination on November 25, 1960, alongside sisters Patria and María Teresa, transformed the Mirabal sisters into enduring symbols of anti-dictatorship resistance throughout Latin America.

    Minou Tavárez Mirabal, representing the Mirabal family, expressed gratitude for governmental support through Decree 117-26, which formally mandates nationwide initiatives celebrating Minerva’s multifaceted legacy as a political theorist, intellectual, and human rights advocate. The commemorative events included the announcement of national student competitions and the inauguration of the special exhibition ‘Mirabal Sisters: A Century Later,’ ensuring continued awareness across generations.

  • In Cienfuegos, powered by the sun

    In Cienfuegos, powered by the sun

    Cienfuegos province has positioned itself at the forefront of Cuba’s renewable energy revolution, implementing a multifaceted solar energy program that extends far beyond conventional photovoltaic parks. While four major solar farms form the backbone of this initiative, the true transformation manifests through decentralized applications improving daily life across urban and rural communities.

    The solar transformation encompasses critical infrastructure including water pumping systems that now serve over 20,000 residents across multiple municipalities. Beginning in San Marcos settlement, the program has expanded to include 63 pumping stations with motors under 10kW capacity, particularly benefiting regions like Lajas that historically faced severe water table challenges. The Real Campiña community hosts the largest system with 64 photovoltaic modules delivering 20 liters per second.

    International cooperation has accelerated progress, with Japan funding a €63,000 project providing potable water to 1,200 residents in Abreus municipality. Meanwhile, Swiss solidarity organizations have supported artistic communities in the Escambray Mountains through solar-powered pumps serving 87 families and sustaining community gardens.

    The provincial government has additionally launched a residential solar program benefiting 470 education and health sector workers through structured payment plans. This initiative has been met with widespread appreciation, recognized both for its practical benefits and as symbolic recognition of professional dedication.

    Urban infrastructure has similarly undergone transformation with 78 solar-powered street lights now illuminating key thoroughfares including San Fernando Boulevard and José Martí Park. These installations generate daily savings of 690 kWh, translating to approximately $65,000 in annual cost reduction.

    Looking forward, Cienfuegos continues expanding its renewable capacity with construction underway on a new 5 MW photovoltaic park in the CEN-Juraguá area, part of China’s 120 MW donation package. Provincial plans envision four additional 21.87 MW facilities, potentially bringing total large-scale installations to eight. Combined with existing smaller facilities, the province’s 127 MW solar capacity now saves an estimated 41,000 tons of fossil fuels annually, demonstrating renewable energy’s tangible economic and environmental benefits.

  • Iran waarschuwt voor olieprijs van $200 per vat terwijl het handelsvaartuigen aanvalt

    Iran waarschuwt voor olieprijs van $200 per vat terwijl het handelsvaartuigen aanvalt

    The Middle East faces a severe energy crisis as Iran threatens to drive oil prices to $200 per barrel amid escalating military conflicts. This warning comes as the International Energy Agency (IEA) recommends the largest-ever release of strategic oil reserves—400 million barrels—to mitigate one of the most significant oil shocks since the 1970s.

    The conflict, which began nearly two weeks ago with joint U.S.-Israeli airstrikes, has resulted in approximately 2,000 fatalities, primarily Iranians and Lebanese. The war has expanded into Lebanon and caused substantial disruption to global energy markets and maritime transport. Iranian Revolutionary Guard forces have targeted commercial vessels in the Gulf, with three ships struck recently after ignoring Iranian commands. A Thai-flagged bulk carrier was set ablaze, leading to crew evacuations and three missing persons.

    Despite intense aerial bombardments described by the Pentagon as the most severe since the war began, Iran demonstrated its capacity to retaliate with attacks on Israeli and Middle Eastern targets. Israel’s Defense Minister stated that military operations would continue “without time limits until all objectives are met,” while former President Trump suggested the campaign might be nearing its conclusion.

    The Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil export route, remains unsafe for shipping due to Iranian mine placements, strengthening the blockade. Iran warned that economic and trade centers in the region could become legitimate targets if attacks persist.

    Oil prices, which nearly reached $120 per barrel earlier in the week, fell to around $90 before surging nearly 5% on Wednesday due to renewed tensions. Wall Street’s major indices declined as investors grappled with the prospect of prolonged conflict.

    The U.S. State Department issued warnings about potential Iranian attacks on American oil and energy infrastructure in Iraq. Meanwhile, the FBI alerted the public to possible Iranian drone attacks on the U.S. West Coast, though Trump expressed confidence in U.S. defenses.

    Despite calls from Turkey and European nations for a ceasefire, both U.S. and Israeli objectives remain focused on crippling Iran’s regional power projection capabilities and nuclear program. Iranian military spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaqari emphasized the country’s intent to inflict prolonged economic shock through oil market disruption.

    Internal dynamics in Iran show resilience despite external pressure. Mass funeral processions were held for fallen commanders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Tehran residents have adapted to nightly bombardments and environmental hazards, while Iranian authorities warned against domestic protests.

    Kurdish opposition leader Abdullah Mohtadi claimed tens of thousands of young Iranians are prepared to revolt if supported by the U.S., though Israeli officials privately acknowledge the regime’s likely survival.

  • Rashid Walker Wins Gospel Artist of the Year at National Music Awards

    Rashid Walker Wins Gospel Artist of the Year at National Music Awards

    In a triumphant celebration of musical excellence, gospel vocalist Rashid Walker secured the prestigious Gospel Artist of the Year award for the second consecutive year during Tuesday evening’s National Music Awards ceremony in Antigua and Barbuda. The event, which honors outstanding achievements across diverse musical genres, saw Walker prevail over a competitive field of fellow finalists.

    Upon receiving the distinction, Walker immediately directed gratitude toward his faith, stating, ‘Thank you. Thank you, Jesus Christ. I know there are a lot of great singers in the room tonight.’ His acceptance speech highlighted a profound acknowledgment of both divine inspiration and the collective talent within the nation’s music community.

    The artist extended appreciation to governmental and cultural institutions for their sustained backing of the arts, specifically thanking the Honorable Minister Daryll Matthew and the Ministry of Culture. Emphasizing the significance of cultural production, Walker issued a rallying cry to fellow gospel musicians to intensify their creative outputs in anticipation of upcoming national celebrations, noting, ‘I do encourage other gospel artists to release music this year so we can have some great music for independence coming up.’

    In reflective remarks, Walker attributed his success to spiritual devotion, explaining, ‘I put my faith in Jesus and the gift He has given me to write songs that glorify Him.’ He also recognized key collaborators—including his producer and accompanying musicians—as instrumental to his award-winning work, while thanking family, friends, and supporters for their unwavering encouragement.

    Concluding with a message of spiritual urgency, Walker added, ‘Jesus is coming soon let’s do all that we can for Him now. God Bless You.’

    The National Music Awards continue to serve as a vital platform for acknowledging the performers, producers, and creative contributors who drive the evolution and richness of Antigua and Barbuda’s music industry.

  • ABEC Says Transparent Ballot Boxes Will Strengthen Election Security

    ABEC Says Transparent Ballot Boxes Will Strengthen Election Security

    The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) has initiated a significant modernization of its voting infrastructure through the deployment of transparent ballot containers, a strategic measure designed to reinforce electoral security protocols and cultivate enhanced public trust in democratic processes.

    In an official communiqué detailing the procedural upgrade, ABEC emphasized that the adoption of see-through ballot boxes represents a proactive initiative to fortify the electoral framework and deliver a contemporized voting encounter for citizens. The commission articulated that the fundamental objective behind this transition is to institute an additional layer of verifiable transparency throughout the voting sequence.

    The innovative design of these containers affords election supervisors and accredited observers unambiguous visual confirmation that each box is entirely vacant at the commencement of voting operations. Furthermore, stakeholders can continuously monitor the secure deposition of ballots throughout the electoral process, thereby eliminating ambiguities regarding the handling of votes.

    ABEC underscored that this technological enhancement incorporates advanced tamper-evident mechanisms engineered to safeguard the sanctity of ballots contained within. These security features are meticulously designed to detect and deter any unauthorized interference, thus preserving the inviolability of the vote from the point of casting through to the final tally.

    Notwithstanding the increased visibility, the commission firmly reassured the electorate that the essential principles of vote secrecy and confidentiality remain rigorously intact. The fundamental right of each voter to cast their ballot in a private and secure manner continues to be protected under the newly implemented system.

  • Kuttin Eddge Band Captures Band of the Year Title

    Kuttin Eddge Band Captures Band of the Year Title

    In a celebratory night honoring musical excellence, the Kuttin Eddge Band emerged victorious, securing the prestigious Band of the Year award at the National Music Awards ceremony this Tuesday. The event, dedicated to recognizing the foremost artists and contributors within Antigua and Barbuda’s vibrant music industry, saw the band triumph over fellow finalists, Climax Band.

    The announcement built anticipation as organizers first revealed the two shortlisted acts before declaring Kuttin Eddge Band as the 2025 honoree. A representative from the winning group took to the stage to accept the accolade, expressing profound gratitude to their dedicated fanbase. ‘It is both an honor and a privilege to receive this award,’ the representative stated, addressing the audience. ‘We extend our deepest thanks to all our supporters, our well-wishers, and our incredible fans for their unwavering backing.’

    This top category was a highlight among numerous awards presented throughout the evening. The annual ceremony serves to celebrate outstanding achievements across all musical genres and acknowledges the significant contributions of performers, producers, and various professionals who shape the nation’s music sector.

  • HeDr. Zahra Lake Wins Arranger of the Year at National Music Awards

    HeDr. Zahra Lake Wins Arranger of the Year at National Music Awards

    In a celebration of musical excellence, Dr. Zahra Mawusi Lake received the prestigious Arranger of the Year honor during Tuesday evening’s National Music Awards ceremony. The distinguished award acknowledges her transformative impact on the steel pan music tradition throughout Antigua and Barbuda.

    Event organizers emphasized Lake’s instrumental role in revitalizing the local steel pan movement, particularly highlighting her leadership of Pandemonium Steel Orchestra. Under her direction, the ensemble achieved an impressive second-place position in the highly competitive National Panorama competition, demonstrating both technical mastery and artistic innovation.

    The recognition extended beyond performance achievements to encompass Lake’s scholarly accomplishments and global advocacy efforts. While completing her doctorate in educational leadership, she simultaneously championed steel pan education through dedicated teaching and international promotion of the art form.

    The annual National Music Awards ceremony serves as a platform to honor artists, musicians, and cultural contributors who have significantly influenced Antigua and Barbuda’s musical heritage. This year’s event highlighted the continuing evolution of the nation’s soundscape while celebrating those who preserve and advance its unique cultural expressions.