Albert Ramdin, the Secretary General of the Organisation of American States (OAS), has called on the United States and Venezuela to prioritize diplomatic solutions to ease escalating tensions, emphasizing the need to avoid a potential ‘war-type situation.’ In a recent interview broadcast on social media, Ramdin stressed the importance of maintaining the Caribbean as a ‘zone of peace’ and urged both nations to exercise restraint. ‘I hope that both countries—Venezuela and the United States—do restrain themselves and ensure that diplomatic negotiations take precedence,’ said Ramdin, a former Suriname foreign minister. He also highlighted the necessity of lawful methods in combating narco-trafficking, a growing concern in the region. The appeal comes amid fears that the US military build-up in the Caribbean is aimed at destabilizing Venezuela’s Nicholás Maduro administration rather than targeting drug cartels. The US has labeled the Cartel de los Soles, allegedly linked to Maduro, as a narco-terrorist organization. Ramdin’s remarks coincided with a visit by General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and President Donald Trump’s primary military adviser, to Puerto Rico and Trinidad and Tobago, where he met with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar. Ramdin underscored the importance of adhering to international law and human rights in combating transnational organized crime, noting that governments must have the legal tools to address these challenges effectively. He also suggested that countries amend their laws to empower governments to fight crime without violating human rights. The issue of transnational crime has been raised by Colombia in recent discussions within the OAS, though it has not yet been formally addressed by the organization.
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Police investigate lifeless body found in Roseau
The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF) has launched an investigation following the discovery of a deceased male near the premises of Dominica Electricity Services (DOMLEC) on Tuesday morning. Initial reports suggest that the individual, whose identity remains undisclosed, was likely homeless. Authorities have yet to release comprehensive details regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident. Dominica News Online (DNO), a reliable local news outlet, has confirmed the ongoing investigation and pledged to provide further updates as more information becomes available. The discovery has sparked concerns within the community, highlighting the pressing issue of homelessness and public safety in the region.
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UK’s business success relies on partnerships, high quality despite competition from China, India – officials
The United Kingdom is leveraging its longstanding partnerships and commitment to high-quality goods and services to maintain a competitive edge in Guyana and the Caribbean, despite growing competition from China and India. This strategy was highlighted during the 5th UK-Guyana Trade Mission, organized in collaboration with The Caribbean Council, British Chambers of Commerce, and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce. UK Trade Envoy to the Commonwealth Caribbean, Paulette Hamilton, emphasized that while China and other nations are aggressively expanding their presence in the region, the UK’s focus remains on fostering enduring relationships and trust. ‘We understand that Guyana is also looking for quality services,’ Hamilton stated, underscoring the UK’s dedication to sustainable growth rather than immediate gains. D’Jamila Ward, Regional Director of the UK’s Department for Business and Trade, noted that the UK ranks among the top five trading partners with the Commonwealth Caribbean. She highlighted the success of UK trade missions, with 40% of participating companies securing commercial deals in Guyana. ‘The UK is not here for quick wins. We build relationships, expertise, and capacity that last beyond any single project,’ Ward asserted. The trade mission showcased expertise in sectors such as education, infrastructure, power supply, and cybersecurity. Chris Bennett, Managing Director of The Caribbean Council, praised Guyana’s use of oil revenues for infrastructure development, including roads, bridges, and hospitals. Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh encouraged UK businesses to explore opportunities in Guyana’s non-oil sector, particularly in infrastructure projects like the Linden-Lethem road and the proposed Guyana-Suriname bridge. The UK’s commitment to long-term partnerships and quality continues to strengthen its position in the Caribbean market.
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Man Arrested Following Fatal Roaring Creek Highway Accident
A tragic incident on the George Price Highway in Roaring Creek Village has led to the arrest of 47-year-old Michael McFadzean from Teakettle Village, Belize. McFadzean has been charged with Manslaughter by Negligence, Causing Death by Careless Conduct, and Driving Without Due Care and Attention following the death of 70-year-old Daniel Puerto. The accident occurred on November 16, 2025, when Puerto was reportedly sitting on the highway and was struck by a minivan driven by McFadzean. Albert Budd, a close friend of Puerto, recounted the harrowing moments leading up to the crash, stating that Puerto was run over a second time by a police vehicle. Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith confirmed that the collision happened after 10:25 PM and that the minivan has been impounded for further investigation. A notice of intended prosecution has been issued to McFadzean.
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PM Says U.S. Attorney Preparing Pre-Action Letter Over Alfa Nero Defamation Claim
The Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda has announced that his U.S. attorney is drafting a pre-action letter to the prominent American law firm Boies Schiller Flexner, seeking $10 million in damages for alleged defamation tied to what he describes as the “Alfa Nero fabrication.” In an online statement, the Prime Minister revealed that the letter will be delivered within 48 hours to David Boies, a partner at the firm. While specific details of the defamatory statements were not disclosed, the Prime Minister accused the firm of disseminating false information related to the ongoing Alfa Nero controversy. The statement also hinted at potential legal action against Harold Lovell, a former political leader, suggesting a broader legal strategy. The Alfa Nero, a superyacht seized in Antigua in 2023 and subsequently sold by the government, has been at the heart of political, legal, and international disputes, leading to numerous court challenges and public debates. Further details on the planned legal action remain undisclosed.
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Dominica joins regional election observation mission, move criticized at home
The Electoral Office of Dominica has announced its participation in a regional election observation mission to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, reflecting the Caribbean’s unified commitment to upholding democratic integrity. The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has formed a ten-member CARICOM Election Observation Mission (CEOM) to oversee the General Elections in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, set for November 27, 2025. Dominica’s Chief Elections Officer, Ms. Anthea Joseph, will be among the observers, collaborating with regional counterparts to evaluate the electoral process. This initiative coincides with Dominica’s ongoing voter confirmation process, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation and the exchange of best practices in strengthening electoral systems. Ms. Joseph emphasized the mission’s role in promoting transparent and accountable elections, stating, ‘By learning from our Caribbean neighbors, we can enhance our own electoral processes.’ The CEOM will engage with electoral authorities, political parties, and civil society groups in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, providing impartial assessments to ensure fairness and transparency. The Electoral Office described the mission as a demonstration of solidarity and shared responsibility for safeguarding democracy in the Caribbean. However, the initiative has faced criticism domestically. Pastor Randy Rodney questioned the timing and purpose of Ms. Joseph’s participation, arguing that her role is more about learning than observation, given her recent appointment. Rodney criticized the government’s decision to appoint an inexperienced leader to the electoral office during a period of reform, suggesting that the former Chief Elections Officer’s expertise would have been more valuable. He also raised concerns about Dominica’s voter confirmation process, arguing that it fails to produce a clean voters list. Rodney highlighted issues such as outdated registrations and deceased individuals still on the electoral list, urging Dominicans to focus on these problems rather than what he termed ‘gerrymandering.’ As Ms. Joseph joins the mission in Kingstown, the initiative underscores both the potential and challenges of electoral reform in the Caribbean, sparking debates about leadership, timing, and the integrity of Dominica’s electoral process.
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First national flower festival 8–15 November 2026
The Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) has unveiled plans for the nation’s first-ever National Flower Festival, set to take place from November 8 to 15, 2026. The announcement was made during a press conference at The Tower Estate, marking a significant milestone for Grenada’s floriculture, tourism, and creative industries. The festival aims to celebrate the island’s natural beauty, floral heritage, and the talents of growers, arrangers, designers, and horticultural communities across the tri-island state. The 8-day event will feature a variety of activities, including village beautification projects, garden tours, floral installations, workshops, community competitions, and culinary and cultural experiences inspired by Grenada’s botanical richness. Randall Dolland, Chairman of the GTA, emphasized the festival’s role in showcasing Grenada’s natural environment and expanding niche markets. He highlighted the potential for integrating edible flowers into cuisine, advancing the perfumery sector, and promoting sustainability practices. The festival will also provide new opportunities for culture, agriculture, tourism, and enterprise. Catherine John, a key figure in Grenada’s Chelsea Flower Show delegation, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, noting its potential to inspire future generations and celebrate the island’s floral abundance. The GTA has stressed the importance of early engagement with growers, communities, and tourism partners, with planting efforts for the festival already underway. The event will be organized in collaboration with floriculture groups, creative industries, the Grenada Hotel and Tourism Association, and various government ministries. Further details about the festival, including branding, program, competitions, tours, and participation guidelines, will be announced in early 2026.
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Flag-Raising Ceremony and March Opens 16 Days of Activism in Belize City
On the morning of November 25, 2025, Belize City launched the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence with a poignant flag-raising ceremony. This nationwide campaign, themed ‘Prevent to Protect: Ending Gender-Based Violence Begins With Us,’ aims to heighten awareness and bolster prevention efforts. Sixteen symbolic flags were raised, each representing a day of activism and honoring survivors of gender-based violence, serving as a stark reminder of the lives impacted and a rallying cry for collective action. Deputy Mayor Eluide Miller led the Belize City Council’s delegation, joined by Minister Thea Garcia-Ramirez, representatives from the Ministry of Human Development, Family Support and Gender Affairs, the National Women’s Commission, and members of the Child Advisory Body and the Youth Shadow Council. Following the ceremony, a march from the Civic Centre to the House of Culture saw leaders, activists, students, and citizens unite in solidarity. Minister Garcia-Ramirez emphasized the importance of reporting abuse, urging the public to move beyond social media comments and seek proper channels for assistance. Student advocates highlighted the role of social media in spreading awareness and the need to recognize subtle signs of abuse. The campaign comes amidst alarming statistics, with over 19,000 cases of femicide reported across Latin America and the Caribbean in the past five years, according to ECLAC’s Gender Equality Observatory.
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Nigerian company becomes latest marketing CBI Agent
A Nigerian firm, VTA Global Services, has recently been authorized as a Marketing Agent for Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to expand its reach across Africa. The license, effective from November 3, 2025, was officially announced in the Government Gazette on November 21, 2025, and signed by Thomas Anthony, CEO of the Investment Migration Agency (IMA).
VTA Global Services, located in the upscale Osborne Foreshore area of Ikoyi, Lagos, specializes in providing global citizenship services, including those for Grenada, St. Lucia, St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, and the Dominican Republic. The company emphasizes its expertise in immigration consulting, aiming to secure positive outcomes for its clients.
Nigeria has emerged as the leading African nation in terms of applications for Grenada’s CBI program, a trend that the IMA plans to extend to other African countries. In July 2025, Anthony highlighted Nigeria’s dominance in CBI applications and announced plans for a West African tour to promote the program further. The IMA has already engaged with Kenya through a collaboration with the Nairobi Chamber of Commerce, attracting over 100 participants to a recent event.
The CBI program, launched in 2014, has become a significant revenue generator for Grenada, with marketing agents required to collaborate with local agents to submit applications for consideration. The program’s expansion into Africa aligns with Grenada’s broader strategy to attract investment and foster economic growth through immigration initiatives.
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Koning Willem-Alexander opent Surinamemuseum in Amsterdam
On Srefidensi Dey, King Willem-Alexander officially inaugurated the Surinamemuseum in Amsterdam, a project spearheaded by the Vereniging Ons Suriname. The event was attended by Amsterdam’s Mayor Femke Halsema, who praised the initiative, emphasizing the museum’s role in bridging the historical and cultural ties between the Netherlands and Suriname. “Understanding Amsterdam is impossible without acknowledging Suriname’s story,” Halsema remarked, pointing to landmarks like the Palace on the Dam and the warehouses of the West India Company as reminders of the city’s colonial past and its involvement in slavery. She highlighted the museum’s significance in providing a space for the history of enslaved Surinamese and their descendants, a narrative long overlooked in Dutch society.
King Willem-Alexander, who received a guided tour from museum director Jan Gerards, congratulated Suriname on its 50th anniversary of independence. He expressed his enthusiasm for an upcoming state visit to Suriname with Queen Máxima, stating, “We would have liked to visit much earlier, but now we can focus on building mature and equal bilateral relations rooted in our shared history.”
The Surinamemuseum, housed in the 19th-century Hugo Olijfveldhuis on Zeeburgerdijk, offers visitors an immersive experience. The entrance features a recreation of the Surinamese rainforest, complete with taxidermied birds, animals, and reptiles, while large screens showcase the country’s natural landscapes. Subsequent rooms delve into the history and culture of Suriname’s diverse population, with significant attention given to the era of slavery, including life on plantations and the struggles of freedom fighters like Boni and Anton de Kom. The latter is honored with a striking installation by artist Ken Doorson. The museum’s top floor provides an overview of Suriname’s past 50 years, covering its turbulent post-independence era and the enduring influence of Surinamese immigrants on Dutch music, art, and sports.