TANGIER, Morocco — On November 25, 2025, Prime Minister Gaston A. Browne of Antigua and Barbuda arrived in Morocco to participate in the 17th edition of the MEDays Forum, held under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. The forum, scheduled from November 26 to 29, 2025, in Tangier, brings together over 300 high-profile speakers, including Heads of State, ministers, Nobel laureates, and international experts, alongside 7,000 participants from 120 countries. This year’s theme, “Fractures & Polarization: Reinventing the Global Equation,” addresses pressing global challenges such as geopolitical tensions, economic fragmentation, and the need for inclusive governance. Known as the “Forum of the South,” MEDays serves as a critical platform for emerging and developing nations to voice their concerns and shape a more equitable international order. Prime Minister Browne’s attendance highlights Antigua and Barbuda’s dedication to South-South cooperation, high-level diplomacy, and advocating for the interests of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in a multipolar world. Key discussions will focus on global governance, economic sovereignty, climate resilience, and development finance — issues of paramount importance to SIDS. The forum also aligns with Antigua and Barbuda’s goals of attracting foreign investment, fostering sustainable development, and strengthening ties with Africa and other Global South partners. Prime Minister Browne emphasized, “In a world of deepening polarization, Antigua and Barbuda must not only adapt but advocate. MEDays 2025 provides a platform to project our priorities, particularly climate resilience and economic equity.” Since its inception in 2008 by the Amadeus Institute, MEDays has evolved into a strategic hub for diplomacy, economics, and intellectual exchange, particularly for the Global South. The 2025 edition features over 50 sessions on geopolitics, economics, energy, climate, and governance, including the MEDays Investment Summit, which promotes public-private investment in Africa and beyond. The event is hosted at the Palais des Arts et de la Culture in Tangier.
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Operation Kraken exposes drug trafficking network
In a groundbreaking revelation, Operation Kraken has dismantled one of the most intricate criminal networks operating within the Dominican Republic’s port logistics system. This syndicate, active since 2015, facilitated the export of drug shipments to Puerto Rico, the United States, Canada, and Europe. The investigation, spearheaded by the Specialized Anti–Money Laundering Prosecutor’s Office, DNCD, and the DEA, uncovered the group’s operations primarily in the eastern and southern regions of the country. Large cocaine shipments arrived through remote coastal areas of Barahona, transported by road to Boca Chica, where the network utilized port employees, security personnel, transporters, and crane operators to conceal and load the drugs into containers at the Caucedo Multimodal Port. The network provided ‘logistics services’ for other drug trafficking organizations, moving South American cocaine through a heavily militarized Caribbean route. Profits were laundered through luxury vehicles, properties, farms, and businesses tied to commerce and tourism. Court documents reveal a methodical system involving insiders across port security and logistics. Security personnel with lax inspections smuggled drugs in their vehicles, while trucks with hidden compartments evaded controls, sometimes aided by X-ray machine operators. Unauthorized individuals entered the port hidden in containers or cargo trucks, exploiting areas without cameras. Inside the port, contraband was moved to the ’empty depot,’ known as ‘the desert,’ where workers discreetly inserted drugs into selected containers. The organization cloned container seals to avoid detection, and contaminated containers were shipped to destinations like Puerto Rico, Miami, New York, Halifax, Antwerp, and Rotterdam.
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Belize Urges Back-to-Back Hearings on Territorial Disputes
Belize is making headlines as it urges the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to conduct back-to-back hearings on two significant territorial disputes. These cases, involving Guatemala and Honduras, could potentially redefine Belize’s borders and have far-reaching implications for sovereignty, security, and national identity. The first case, initiated in 2019, addresses Guatemala’s longstanding claims over Belizean land and maritime territories. The second, filed in 2022, focuses on the Sapodilla Cayes in the Gulf of Honduras, contested by both Belize and Honduras. Belize’s Special Envoy, Ambassador Assad Shoman, emphasized the importance of resolving these disputes efficiently to avoid delays and redundancy. He suggested that the ICJ hear the Guatemala/Belize case first, followed closely by the Belize/Honduras case, to streamline proceedings and minimize repetition. This strategic approach aims to ensure a comprehensive resolution of all territorial claims against Belize, reinforcing its position on the global stage. The outcomes of these cases could significantly impact regional diplomacy and Belize’s future, making this a pivotal moment in the nation’s history.
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Belize Urges ICJ to Fast-Track Border Hearings
Belize has taken a proactive stance at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), urging the court to expedite and coordinate hearings on two intertwined territorial disputes. The first involves Guatemala’s longstanding claim over Belizean territory, while the second centers on Honduras’ recent assertion of rights over the Sapodilla Cayes. Notably, Honduras only raised its claim in 1981, following the collapse of the Heads of Agreement talks between the UK and Guatemala. Despite this, Honduras has largely left its claim dormant and chose not to intervene in the ongoing Guatemala-Belize case. Belize’s legal team, led by Ben Juratowitch, KC, argues that holding the hearings back-to-back would allow the ICJ to address both disputes comprehensively, potentially leading to a complete resolution. However, questions remain about how overlapping arguments and Honduras’ push for traditional fishing rights might complicate the proceedings. Belize and Guatemala have found common ground on several points, including the timing of Honduras’ claim and its lack of intervention. The ICJ’s approach will be crucial in determining whether Belize’s strategy succeeds in achieving a clear and final resolution.
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ICJ Battle Pits Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras Over Sapodillas
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is set to adjudicate a high-stakes territorial dispute involving Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras over the sovereignty of the Sapodilla Islands in the Gulf of Honduras. This legal confrontation underscores the complexities of international law, historical claims, and geopolitical interests. Guatemala asserts its stake in the islands, citing overlapping territorial claims with Belize, while Honduras challenges the validity of Guatemala’s legal interest, arguing it lacks specificity and precision. The case hinges on Article 62 of the ICJ Statute, which requires a well-established legal interest for intervention. Professor Carlos Jiménez Piernas, Legal Counsel for Honduras, emphasized that Guatemala’s claims are not substantiated by the court’s jurisprudence. The outcome of this case will not only determine the fate of the Sapodilla Islands but also set a precedent for resolving disputes where history, geography, and law intersect. The ICJ’s decision will address a fundamental question: in an era of blurred borders, how do nations define and defend their sovereignty?
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Delecia Flowers’ Family Wants Closure One Month After Her Murder
One month has passed since the brutal murder of 35-year-old Delecia Flowers in her Belize City home, leaving her family devastated and her teenage daughter injured. The incident, which occurred in October—a month dedicated to raising awareness about domestic violence—has highlighted the alarming prevalence of gender-based violence in Belize. As the country joins the global Sixteen Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, Delecia’s family continues to grapple with their loss and seek justice. Delecia’s brother, Delroy Moody, shared the family’s anguish and the challenges they face in coping with the tragedy. He expressed concerns about the broader societal issues contributing to such violence, including substance abuse and unresolved anger. Despite their efforts, the family has yet to receive updates on the case, leaving them in a state of uncertainty and frustration. Moody emphasized the need for systemic change to break the cycle of violence and protect women and children in Belize.
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Guatemalan Dollar Van Driver Granted Bail in Teen Assault Case
In a highly charged courtroom drama on November 25, 2025, Wenseslao Garrido-Veilz, a 43-year-old Guatemalan dollar van driver accused of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl, was granted bail despite strong objections from police prosecutors. The emotional scene saw Garrido-Veilz break down in tears as he pleaded not guilty, first in Spanish and then in English, stating, “Thank you God…I neva touch dah young lady.” The case stems from allegations that on a Saturday, the teenager boarded his van on Cemetery Road. After dropping off other passengers, Garrido-Veilz allegedly drove her to a secluded feeder road near Cisco on the George Price Highway, where he inappropriately touched her. A medical examination confirmed physical harm. Prosecutors argued that Garrido-Veilz posed a flight risk, but he countered by emphasizing his family ties in the country and lack of a passport. The court set bail at $5,000 with stringent conditions: no contact with the victim, no international travel, and mandatory weekly police check-ins. Garrido-Veilz is scheduled to return to court on January 13, 2025, as the case continues to unfold.
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Belize City Man Charged in Teen Assault Case
A troubling incident in Belize City has led to the arrest of a 50-year-old construction worker, Carlos Balon, on charges of sexual assault. The case involves a 14-year-old girl who reported being inappropriately touched by Balon while shopping at a local store on Freedom Street. The alleged assault occurred on Sunday night, leaving the teenager visibly shaken and distressed. Upon learning of the incident, the girl immediately informed the store owner, and her mother subsequently took her to the police station to file a formal complaint. Balon appeared in court today, where he pleaded not guilty despite the charges. The magistrate granted him bail set at $4,000 under stringent conditions, including maintaining a distance of at least 100 feet from the victim and reporting to the police every Friday. Authorities have emphasized the seriousness of the case as they proceed with the investigation.
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Scott Meyers Survives L.A. Shooting Incident
In a harrowing incident in Los Angeles, California, Scott Meyers, a Belizean national residing in the United States, is on the road to recovery after surviving a shooting on Monday. Meyers, who sustained injuries during the attack, is currently receiving medical treatment and is reported to be in stable condition. While specific details surrounding the incident remain scarce, a family member has confirmed his survival and improving health. This event is part of a series of shootings that have plagued Los Angeles this week, prompting local authorities to intensify their investigations. As the situation unfolds, further updates are anticipated to shed light on the circumstances of the incident and the ongoing efforts to address gun violence in the area.
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Driver Arrested for Death of RTA Victim Daniel Puerto
In a tragic incident on November 16, 2025, 70-year-old Daniel Puerto lost his life after being struck by a minivan on the George Price Highway in Roaring Creek Village. The driver, 47-year-old Michael McFadzean from Teakettle Village, was arrested and charged on November 25 in connection with the accident. According to police reports, Puerto was either seated on the roadway or attempting to cross it when the collision occurred. Witnesses stated that Puerto, who appeared to be intoxicated, was dragged a short distance by the vehicle. McFadzean now faces serious charges, including Manslaughter by Negligence, Causing Death by Careless Conduct, and Driving Without Due Care and Attention. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.