The United Nations Security Council is set to vote on Tuesday on a pivotal proposal to transform the current UN-backed security mission in Haiti into a robust, full-scale force. This initiative aims to address the escalating gang violence that has plunged the Caribbean nation into chaos. Currently, the Multinational Security Mission (MSS) comprises 1,000 police officers, predominantly from Kenya, who are assisting the overwhelmed Haitian police force. However, the mission, established in 2023, has yielded inconsistent results. Laurent Saint-Cyr, head of the Haitian Transitional Presidential Council, recently highlighted the dire situation at a UN diplomatic gathering, describing Haiti as a ‘country at war’ and a ‘human tragedy on America’s doorstep.’ He emphasized the urgent need for international intervention, citing the displacement of over a million people and the destruction of entire neighborhoods. The proposed expansion, spearheaded by the United States and Panama, would increase the force to a maximum of 5,500 personnel, including both police and military units, for an initial one-year period. Kenya’s President William Ruto expressed confidence that with adequate resources and logistics, Haiti’s security could be restored. The plan also includes establishing a UN support office to provide logistical and financial backing. US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau underscored the mission’s mandate to proactively target gangs and restore stability. However, the resolution faces potential opposition, with China and Russia expressing skepticism about the mission’s effectiveness without political reforms in Haiti. Both countries abstained from the initial vote, and their positions remain uncertain ahead of Tuesday’s decision. Haiti, the poorest nation in the Americas, has been plagued by violent gangs, political instability, and a lack of elections since 2016. The situation deteriorated further in early 2024 when gangs forced Prime Minister Ariel Henry to resign, leaving the country under the leadership of a Transitional Presidential Council.
作者: admin
-

SLB diversifying loan options for alternative education pathways
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant move to adapt to evolving educational and employment trends, the Students’ Loan Bureau (SLB) of Jamaica has unveiled plans to diversify its loan offerings. The initiative aims to cater to Jamaicans seeking flexible learning opportunities beyond traditional degree programs, including professional certifications and emerging skill areas crucial for national development.
-

Muslim states join European powers in backing Trump Gaza plan
DOHA, Qatar — In a significant development, several Muslim-majority nations have expressed their support for U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to end the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The plan, which has also garnered backing from key European allies, aims to bring an immediate halt to the devastating war. However, some Palestinian factions and residents of Gaza have dismissed the initiative as a “farce” and a ploy to secure the release of hostages without addressing the root causes of the conflict.
-

Trump’s 20-point Gaza peace plan
In a significant move to address the prolonged conflict in Gaza, the White House has unveiled a detailed 20-point plan aimed at ending the nearly two-year war, securing the release of hostages held by Hamas, and outlining a sustainable future for the Palestinian enclave. The plan, announced on Monday, was presented by President Donald Trump alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who expressed cautious support for the initiative.
The proposal begins with the establishment of Gaza as a deradicalised, terror-free zone, ensuring it no longer poses a threat to neighboring regions. It emphasizes the redevelopment of Gaza to benefit its residents, who have endured immense suffering. A key component of the plan is the immediate cessation of hostilities upon mutual agreement, with Israeli forces withdrawing to pre-defined lines to facilitate the release of hostages. Military operations, including aerial and artillery bombardments, will be suspended during this period.
Within 72 hours of Israel’s acceptance of the agreement, all hostages, both alive and deceased, are to be returned. In exchange, Israel will release 250 life-sentence prisoners and 1,700 Gazans detained after October 7, 2023, including all women and children. Hamas members committed to peaceful coexistence will be granted amnesty, and those wishing to leave Gaza will be provided safe passage.
The plan also prioritizes humanitarian aid, ensuring the immediate delivery of essential supplies and the rehabilitation of critical infrastructure such as water, electricity, and hospitals. A temporary transitional governance structure, led by a technocratic Palestinian committee and overseen by an international ‘Board of Peace,’ will manage Gaza’s administration until the Palestinian Authority completes its reform program.
Economic revitalization is a cornerstone of the proposal, with the creation of a special economic zone and the involvement of international experts to attract investment and foster job creation. The plan guarantees that no one will be forced to leave Gaza, while encouraging residents to stay and contribute to rebuilding their homeland.
To ensure long-term security, the United States will collaborate with regional partners to establish an International Stabilisation Force (ISF) to train and support Palestinian police forces. The ISF will work alongside Israel and Egypt to secure border areas and prevent the flow of munitions into Gaza. Israel has committed to not occupying or annexing Gaza, with the IDF progressively withdrawing as stability is achieved.
The plan also includes measures to promote interfaith dialogue, foster peaceful coexistence, and create a credible pathway to Palestinian self-determination and statehood. The United States will facilitate ongoing dialogue between Israel and the Palestinians to ensure a political horizon for peaceful and prosperous coexistence.
-

Missing man found dead in Manchester
In a tragic discovery, the decomposed remains of a man believed to be mentally challenged were found in an overgrown area of George Reid, Manchester, on Monday. The body is suspected to be that of Marlon Corinthian, a 46-year-old resident who was last seen on September 20. Concerned family members had filed a missing person’s report on September 27 after growing anxious about his disappearance. The grim find was made when residents, alerted by a foul odor, searched the area. A local woman recounted how a man from the community used a machete to clear the bushes, uncovering a part of a foot. Police were immediately notified. The woman, who identified herself as Corinthian’s friend, expressed her sorrow, stating that she last saw him nine days ago. She speculated that Corinthian, who often foraged for herbs to make tea, might have fallen into a ditch and become trapped. ‘He had a mental problem, but everyone loved him. I don’t think anyone would harm him,’ she added. A relative revealed that Corinthian was a mental health patient and had been missing from his usual spots, including the Mandeville Regional Hospital. Firefighters assisted in removing the body, with onlookers using masks and fabric to shield themselves from the stench. The community mourns the loss of a man described as kind and well-loved.
-

Parents must pay close attention to changes in children’s behaviour – NPSC
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Kaysia Kerr, CEO of the National Parenting Support Commission (NPSC), has issued a heartfelt plea to parents, urging them to remain vigilant about behavioural changes in their children amidst a concerning rise in student suicides. Speaking to JIS News, Kerr emphasized that even subtle shifts in behaviour could signal underlying emotional distress or trauma. She advised parents to approach such changes with care and empathy, ensuring their children feel safe to express themselves. Kerr highlighted several critical warning signs, including sudden bedwetting, altered sleep or eating habits, social withdrawal, and unusual agitation or hyperactivity. She stressed the importance of early intervention, encouraging parents to seek professional help from trusted sources such as pastors, doctors, teachers, or school counsellors. Additionally, Kerr pointed to resources like the NPSC and the Office of the Children’s Advocate (OCA), which offers a 24-hour helpline for confidential support. Kerr underscored the value of parental intuition, particularly among mothers, and urged immediate action if something feels amiss. ‘Early intervention can save lives,’ she concluded.
-

Waterhouse beat Chapelton in JPL
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Waterhouse FC ended their two-game losing streak with a commanding 3-0 triumph over Chapelton Maroons in a Jamaica Premier League first-round match at Drewsland Stadium on Monday. This victory marked Waterhouse FC’s third win of the season, propelling them to nine points and fifth place in the league standings. The team successfully maintained a first-half lead, a feat they had struggled with in their previous two matches, which resulted in defeats. Chapelton Maroons faced significant challenges after goalkeeper Prince-Daniel Smith was shown a second yellow card for entering the stands to interact with a fan, leaving his team with 10 players for the final minute of regulation and six minutes of added time. This loss extended Chapelton Maroons’ winless streak to three games, leaving them with just one point after a strong start to the season with three consecutive victories. Waterhouse FC’s Mario Simms opened the scoring in the 15th minute with a precise shot into the far left corner, assisted by Denardo Thomas’s incisive pass. Kenly Deacon sealed the win in the 85th minute with a close-range goal, while Omani Leacock capitalized on a penalty opportunity after being fouled by Kevin Graham, scoring past substitute goalkeeper Andrew Vanzie. Earlier in the day, Portmore United and Molynes United played to a goalless draw, with Molynes’ Jason Wright missing a penalty saved by goalkeeper Daniel Russell in the first half.
-

Man found dead under bridge in Penville has been identified by the police
Authorities in Penville have confirmed the tragic discovery of 64-year-old Tony Seaman, a local resident, whose lifeless body was found beneath a bridge in the area. The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, as police have yet to release detailed information about the incident. The community has been left in shock by the news, with many awaiting further updates from law enforcement. Dominica News Online has pledged to provide additional details as the investigation progresses. This incident has raised concerns among residents, prompting calls for increased safety measures in the area. The police have assured the public that they are treating the matter with the utmost seriousness and are working diligently to uncover the truth behind this unfortunate event.


