Carib Scope

作者： admin

  • Al-Rawi downplays ‘new’ US security move

    Al-Rawi downplays ‘new’ US security move

    Opposition Senator Faris Al-Rawi has characterized Trinidad and Tobago’s recent engagement in the US Southern Command Counter Cartel initiative as an extension of longstanding security cooperation rather than a novel development. Speaking to journalists outside Parliament, Al-Rawi emphasized the nation’s historical collaboration with American agencies while issuing a stark warning against constitutional overreach in crime prevention measures.

    The Shield of the Americas security framework, which Trinidad recently joined, represents continuity rather than innovation in bilateral relations according to the senator. He referenced decades of operational partnerships including Operation Tradewinds military exercises, Status of Forces Agreements (SOFA), and routine collaboration with the Drug Enforcement Administration and Federal Bureau of Investigation. “These are standard operating procedures,” Al-Rawi noted, highlighting that transshipment drug operations fundamentally drive criminality in the region.

    Al-Rawi expressed particular concern about the government’s deployment of a state of emergency (SoE) as a primary crime-fighting tool. He clarified that constitutional emergency powers should remain reserved for genuine crises, noting that existing legislation already enables joint patrols and coordinated operations with presidential authorization. “What will be novel is the duration of this emergency declaration,” he cautioned, adding that “permanent emergency powers cannot constitute a sustainable security strategy.”

    Regarding diplomatic implications, the senator dismissed anxieties about compromised sovereignty, stating the US partnership hasn’t negatively influenced Trinidad’s regional relationships. He emphasized that “political framing and presentation” matter more than the operational details of security cooperation.

    Concurrently, Legal Affairs Minister Saddam Hosein voiced strong support for strengthened US-Trinidad security collaboration, rejecting claims of eroded sovereignty. “The United States has historically been both trading partner and security ally across various administrations,” Hosein stated, noting “enhanced diplomatic engagement” under the current government.

    The minister separately addressed global conflicts, expressing solidarity with oppressed Muslim communities worldwide. During the holy period of Ramadan, Hosein called for peace in Gaza and other conflict zones, stating that while his views might not alter geopolitical outcomes, collective prayers could alleviate global suffering.

  • US shares ‘persons of interest’ list with T&T in anti-cartel push

    US shares ‘persons of interest’ list with T&T in anti-cartel push

    In a significant development for Caribbean security cooperation, Trinidad and Tobago’s Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander has confirmed that United States officials have provided the island nation with a comprehensive list of individuals connected to narcotics trafficking, illegal firearms, and organized violence. This intelligence sharing occurs within the framework of the newly established Americas Counter Cartel Coalition, a Trump administration initiative that includes Trinidad and Tobago among 17 Latin American nations.

    Minister Alexander, while maintaining discretion regarding specific operational details for national security reasons, emphasized the transformative nature of this bilateral partnership. “The United States gathers massive intelligence on countries, organizations, and individuals,” Alexander stated. “They know exactly who they can work with and who they can trust regarding security efforts against cartels and narco-traffickers.”

    The coalition represents a strategic shift in hemispheric security policy, with U.S. President Donald Trump characterizing criminal cartels as a “cancer” requiring decisive military response. Official proclamations from the coalition’s inaugural meeting indicate participating nations will receive training and mobilization support to create “the most effective fighting force necessary to dismantle cartels.”

    Concurrently, Defence Minister Wayne Sturge revealed that Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s diplomatic efforts have positioned Trinidad and Tobago among twelve key nations engaged in critical hemispheric security discussions. Sturge noted that the country’s geographic location places it at the forefront of combating narcotics trafficking and transnational criminal operations in the Caribbean region.

    This enhanced cooperation includes advanced surveillance capabilities, improved intelligence sharing mechanisms, and acquisition of sophisticated equipment to secure borders against criminal networks. Both ministers characterized this partnership as facilitating a “national security reset” for Trinidad and Tobago, which is currently operating under a state of emergency due to escalating criminal violence.

    Minister Alexander defended the coalition’s potentially aggressive stance: “We support aggressive action against those who continue to kill our citizens through trafficking. They are killing entire society with nefarious activities impacting our youth. We are fed up with this criminality.”

  • $2.3m ‘VAT fraud’

    $2.3m ‘VAT fraud’

    Three defendants from Tobago have been formally committed to stand trial in the High Court following a judicial ruling that found sufficient evidence of their alleged involvement in a major Value Added Tax (VAT) fraud scheme totaling approximately $2.3 million. The accused parties include businessman Richie Habib, businesswoman Yolande Clarke, and their company Habib International Ltd.

    The case centers on allegations that between August 2016 and December 2021, the defendants conspired to defraud the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) by issuing 65 invoices that improperly included VAT charges. According to court documents, Habib International Ltd. was not registered under the Value Added Tax Act during the period in question, making the company ineligible to collect VAT payments.

    Prosecutors assert that the scheme involved the fraudulent use of a VAT registration number belonging to Springer Property Development Ltd., which was utilized with Clarke’s permission. The prosecution contends that while VAT was collected from the THA on these invoices, the funds were never remitted to the Board of Inland Revenue (BIR), effectively cheating the public revenue system of $2,361,801.14.

    The case came to light following an investigation by Rawle Sookhoo of the BIR’s Criminal Tax Investigation Unit, who initiated proceedings after receiving reports of fraudulent invoicing practices targeting the THA. During a virtual hearing on March 2, Master Kimitria Grey reviewed the documentary evidence and determined that the State had established a prima facie case sufficient to warrant a full trial.

    All three defendants remain on bail with surety set at $800,000 pending the commencement of High Court proceedings scheduled for September 18. The prosecution is being handled by special prosecutor Evans Welch representing the BIR, while the defendants are represented by senior counsel Gilbert Peterson, attorney Dawn Pallackdarrysingh, and attorney Criston J. Williams.

  • Shield of the Americas: Benefit or gamble for T&T?

    Shield of the Americas: Benefit or gamble for T&T?

    International relations experts are raising substantive questions about sovereignty and foreign policy alignment as Trinidad and Tobago joins the U.S.-led Shield of the Americas initiative against drug trafficking. The agreement, formally proclaimed by President Donald Trump on March 7 during a summit at Trump National Doral Miami, establishes enhanced military and law enforcement coordination among participant nations targeting transnational criminal networks specializing in narcotics transportation.

    Dr. Anthony Gonzales, a prominent international relations analyst, confirmed to local media that the arrangement promises technological equipment, advanced training, and operational support to strengthen Trinidad and Tobago’s capacity to monitor and intercept drug shipments. He acknowledged the nation’s critical position along Caribbean drug transit routes, stating, “We do have a cartel problem and must accept that drugs transit through this country en route to global markets.”

    However, Dr. Gonzales emphasized significant uncertainties regarding the initiative’s operational parameters and potential sovereignty implications. “We’ve yet to see the exact parameters of the shield,” he noted, suggesting possible increased U.S. military presence within Trinidad and Tobago’s territorial waters. The analyst further highlighted geopolitical complications, particularly regarding the nation’s existing economic relationships with China. “The Americans are trying to limit Chinese influence in critical infrastructure and ports,” Gonzales observed, suggesting participation might pressure Trinidad and Tobago to reassess its Chinese trade agreements.

    Regional political analyst Peter Wickham characterized the initiative as primarily associated with Trump rather than established international frameworks, noting the absence of clear structural details makes substantive evaluation challenging. Both analysts noted that major drug transit nations like Mexico and Colombia have maintained bilateral arrangements with the U.S. rather than joining the coalition, suggesting alternative approaches to security cooperation.

    The long-term implications remain speculative, particularly given the unpredictable nature of Trump’s international policies. As Wickham concluded, “I don’t think this is the end of anything. Frankly, I believe this, too, shall pass,” indicating skepticism about the initiative’s enduring impact on regional security architecture.

  • Health Ministry introduces nonavalent HPV vaccine for children

    Health Ministry introduces nonavalent HPV vaccine for children

    The Dominican Republic has taken a significant step forward in public health by integrating the nonavalent Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine into its national immunization program. This advanced vaccine will be administered free of charge to children aged 9 to 14 years through the country’s extensive healthcare network.

    Health Minister Víctor Atallah announced that the new vaccine formulation provides protection against nine high-risk HPV strains—specifically types 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58. This represents a substantial improvement over the previously used quadrivalent vaccine, offering broader coverage against virus variants known to cause cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases.

    The vaccination initiative, operating under the banner “Health is a priority to protect your future,” forms a crucial component of the government’s enhanced preventive healthcare strategy for youth. Health authorities confirmed the vaccine’s availability through 40 Provincial Health Directorates and more than 1,400 vaccination centers nationwide.

    According to immunization protocols, most recipients will require only a single dose, while immunocompromised children may receive two doses for optimal protection. The official rollout ceremony occurred at the Hospital Infantil Dr. José Manuel Rodríguez Jiménez, symbolizing the program’s focus on pediatric health.

    Alba María Ropero Álvarez, representing the Pan American Health Organization, highlighted the significance of this development, noting that the Dominican Republic now joins an exclusive group of nations—including Argentina, Canada, Chile, and the United States—that have incorporated this latest-generation HPV vaccine into their national health programs. Medical research indicates this nonavalent vaccine prevents over 90% of HPV-related cancer cases, marking a substantial advancement in cervical cancer prevention efforts.

  • Third statement from Cricket West Indies on West Indies Men’s Team Departure from T20 World Cup

    Third statement from Cricket West Indies on West Indies Men’s Team Departure from T20 World Cup

    KOLKATA, India – March 11, 2026 – Cricket West Indies has announced the successful arrangement of commercial travel for its men’s squad members remaining in India, following nine days of extensive delays with International Cricket Council-coordinated charter flights. The unprecedented situation arose after the ICC’s intended joint transport for both West Indies and South Africa teams faced repeated postponements due to escalating global tensions and restrictive aviation regulations.

    According to standard tournament protocols, the ICC maintains full responsibility for all travel and accommodation logistics for participating teams during World Cup events across both men’s and women’s competitions. However, the extended uncertainty surrounding the charter arrangements created increasing distress among players and support staff stranded overseas.

    Citing concerns for player welfare and safety, Cricket West Indies formally notified the ICC that continuing to await the uncertain charter transportation was no longer viable. The cricket board subsequently initiated coordinated efforts through multiple channels, including player representatives and partner organizations, to secure alternative commercial travel options with ICC collaboration.

    Partial departures have already occurred, with the remaining squad members scheduled to return home via commercial flights on March 10th and 11th. Cricket West Indies expressed appreciation for the concern demonstrated by fans and stakeholders throughout the resolution process, acknowledging the support and patience extended during the challenging circumstances surrounding the team’s departure from the T20 World Cup host nation.

  • FinCEN Advisory Lifted, Marking Major Milestone in Restoring Saint Kitts and Nevis’ Global Financial Reputation

    FinCEN Advisory Lifted, Marking Major Milestone in Restoring Saint Kitts and Nevis’ Global Financial Reputation

    BASSETERRE, SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS – March 11, 2026 – In a landmark development for Caribbean financial governance, the United States Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) has formally rescinded its 2014 advisory against Saint Kitts and Nevis’ financial system. The February 24th decision marks a triumphant conclusion to the Federation’s twelve-year effort to restore international confidence in its economic frameworks.

    The controversial advisory, initially implemented during the Obama administration, had cautioned global financial institutions about potential vulnerabilities within the nation’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program. This warning stemmed from concerns that illicit actors might exploit the program for money laundering and other financial crimes.

    Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, addressing journalists during a recent media roundtable, characterized the advisory removal as transformative for the nation’s economic sovereignty. “This achievement validates our comprehensive reform agenda,” stated Drew, who personally oversees citizenship and immigration policies. “We have systematically rebuilt our program to eliminate the questionable practices that previously jeopardized our international standing.”

    The government’s reform initiative, launched upon assuming office in 2022, introduced rigorous safeguards including biometric verification protocols, mandatory applicant interviews, enhanced due diligence procedures, and strengthened international compliance cooperation. Notably, the administration restructured the Citizenship by Investment Unit into an independent statutory body governed by an autonomous Board of Governors.

    Prime Minister Drew emphasized the practical implications of the FinCEN decision, noting that the advisory had created significant banking challenges and discouraged foreign investment. “The presence of such an advisory creates tangible barriers to international financial transactions and economic development,” Drew explained. “Its removal signals to global markets that Saint Kitts and Nevis has achieved compliance with international financial standards.”

    The resolution represents a diplomatic achievement in US-Caribbean relations and demonstrates how smaller nations can successfully address international regulatory concerns through substantive policy reforms and strengthened governance mechanisms.

  • Turner Seeks International Support for Gender-Based Violence Shelter in Antigua and Barbuda

    Turner Seeks International Support for Gender-Based Violence Shelter in Antigua and Barbuda

    Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister of Social Transformation, Samantha Turner, has unveiled government plans to establish a comprehensive support facility for survivors of gender-based violence during high-level diplomatic exchanges in New York. The initiative, developed in collaboration with the Directorate of Gender Affairs and International Health Outreach (IHO), represents a significant advancement in the nation’s commitment to addressing gender-based violence through practical interventions.

    The proposed shelter will provide extended accommodation for abuse survivors alongside integrated support services including psychological counseling, legal assistance, and rehabilitation programs designed to facilitate long-term recovery and social reintegration. Minister Turner emphasized the facility’s role in creating a secure environment where women can rebuild their lives with professional support and protection.

    During discussions with Lin Yi, Vice President of the All-China Women’s Federation, Minister Turner outlined the project’s framework and explored potential international financing partnerships to ensure sustainable implementation. The ministerial delegation included Glentis Thomas, First Secretary at Antigua and Barbuda’s Permanent Mission to the UN, and Ashlea Ambris, Project Officer at the Directorate of Gender Affairs.

    In parallel developments, the Antiguan delegation conducted strategic talks with the Commonwealth Secretariat’s gender unit to finalize preparations for the Women’s Forum scheduled alongside November’s Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Antigua and Barbuda. The forum will convene heads of state, women parliamentarians, international development partners, and civil society organizations to formulate policies promoting women’s leadership and empowerment across Commonwealth nations.

  • Prime Minister Drew reaffirms urgency of renewable energy transition amid global uncertainty

    Prime Minister Drew reaffirms urgency of renewable energy transition amid global uncertainty

    In a compelling address on March 10, 2026, Saint Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew issued a stark warning about the Federation’s vulnerability to global energy market volatility. Speaking during his weekly Roundtable discussion, the Prime Minister emphasized how escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East directly threaten the economic stability of import-dependent island nations through potential oil price shocks.

    Dr. Drew outlined his administration’s strategic response, highlighting the substantial allocation of federal resources toward developing sustainable energy infrastructure. The government’s renewable energy agenda centers particularly on geothermal exploration initiatives in Nevis, which promise to deliver affordable power across both islands upon completion.

    “Our commitment to geothermal development represents a transformative investment in national energy security,” Dr. Drew stated. “Successful implementation will provide cheap, sustainable energy throughout the Federation, fundamentally altering our economic resilience.”

    Acknowledging the interim challenges before renewable projects become operational, the Prime Minister detailed protective measures for citizens and businesses. Existing social protection programs will be maintained and potentially strengthened to cushion against economic pressures arising from global energy cost fluctuations.

    The government currently absorbs significant portions of electricity costs to shield households from market instability, a policy Dr. Drew emphasized while calling for public cooperation. He urged citizens to practice energy conservation and financial responsibility as part of a collective national resilience strategy.

    The Prime Minister reaffirmed renewable energy development as a cornerstone of his administration’s sustainable development agenda, essential for long-term energy security, economic stability, and protection from external economic shocks.

  • Tian Winter, Kaution Band and Hell’s Gate Among Big Winners at National Music Awards

    Tian Winter, Kaution Band and Hell’s Gate Among Big Winners at National Music Awards

    Antigua and Barbuda’s National Music Awards illuminated the nation’s cultural landscape on Tuesday evening, honoring exceptional achievements across the diverse spectrum of the country’s music industry. The prestigious ceremony served as a testament to the vibrant creative sector, bringing together artists, producers, and performers who collectively shape the nation’s musical identity.

    Among the night’s most celebrated figures was soca sensation Tian Winter, who achieved a remarkable double victory by securing both Soca Artist of the Year and Recording Artist of the Year honors. His dominance across multiple categories underscored a particularly successful year of musical releases and captivating performances.

    The coveted Song of the Year award was presented to Soca Village for their energetic composition ‘BB Service,’ which generated palpable excitement among attendees upon its announcement. In the spiritual music domain, Rashid Walker received Gospel Artist of the Year recognition, using the platform to inspire fellow gospel musicians during the approach to Independence celebrations.

    Reggae and dancehall enthusiasts celebrated Niko Wild West’s triumph as Reggae/Dancehall Artist of the Year, while G. Eve Phillips earned the distinguished title of Calypsonian of the Year. Behind the production console, Andrew ‘Smilus’ Dorsett was acclaimed as Producer of the Year, acknowledging the collaborative trust between producer and performing artists.

    The ceremony also highlighted instrumental excellence, with Marisha Potter receiving Pannist of the Year and Dr. Zahra Lake being honored as Arranger of the Year for her pioneering work in steel pan education and leadership of Pandemonium Steel Orchestra. Hell’s Gate Steel Orchestra marked a historic milestone by capturing Steel Band of the Year during their 80th anniversary celebrations.

    Educational institutions gained recognition through PMS Serenaders’ win as School Steel Band of the Year, while Dwight Laviscount received Instrumentalist of the Year for his dedication to mentoring emerging musicians. Live performance categories showcased Cutting Edge Band as Band of the Year and Caution Band as Jam Band of the Year.

    Entertainment professionals Steve ‘Ibis the Livest’ Freeland (MC of the Year), DJ Quest (DJ of the Year for the second consecutive year), and King Warrior Sound (Sound of the Year) were celebrated for their contributions to the industry’s event landscape. Heaven – The R&B Experience received Niche Event of the Year, while Rise by Jam Events took Large Scale Event of the Year honors as one of the Caribbean’s premier carnival events.

    Education, Sports and Creative Industries Minister Daryll Matthew announced the introduction of a Young Roadmarch category for Carnival 2026, designed to provide junior artists with dedicated competitive platforms. The gathering united musicians, producers, cultural stakeholders, and enthusiasts in celebration of Antigua and Barbuda’s rich musical heritage, demonstrating ongoing commitment to nurturing local talent and promoting cultural creativity on regional and international stages.