Carib Scope

作者： admin

  • STATEMENTS: Dominica Bar Association on voter registration and confirmation – ensuring the Integrity and inclusivity of the electoral process

    STATEMENTS: Dominica Bar Association on voter registration and confirmation – ensuring the Integrity and inclusivity of the electoral process

    The Dominica Bar Association has released a comprehensive statement emphasizing the fundamental importance of voter registration verification and its proper administration by authorities to protect the democratic rights of all citizens. The legal body has received numerous expressions of concern regarding electoral processes through both written and verbal communications.

    In an unprecedented appeal transcending political affiliations, the Association urgently calls upon every registered voter to verify their registration status to ensure participation in forthcoming electoral events, whether local or national. This represents an inclusive initiative directed at all Dominican citizens regardless of political orientation or background.

    The constitutional significance of voting rights receives particular emphasis, with reference to paragraph (c) of Dominica’s Constitution Preamble which asserts the people’s belief in a democratic society where all persons may participate in national institutions according to their capacity, thereby fostering respect for lawfully constituted authority.

    While acknowledging ongoing legal challenges to recently amended electoral legislation and concerns about the current framework, the Association stresses the necessity for eligible voters to comply with existing regulations until any formal modifications occur. This approach is presented as the most effective method to safeguard both individual voting rights and the nation’s democratic principles.

    Addressing specific concerns about identification requirements for registration confirmation, the Bar Association proposes that the Electoral Commission conduct a thorough, data-informed analysis to evaluate how ID mandates affect voter participation rates. Such statistical examination would determine whether adjustments to identification requirements are necessary to balance electoral list integrity against potential voter disenfranchisement.

    Given current legal stipulations requiring identification, the Association questions what measures the government is implementing to assist citizens lacking proper documentation or financial means to obtain it. The legal body recommends implementing non-partisan initiatives, such as temporarily suspending new passport application fees to facilitate passport acquisition as valid identification.

    To enhance the confirmation process, the Association advocates for intensified public awareness campaigns by the Electoral Office and political parties, suggesting election-level promotion efforts. Additionally, the proposal includes employers—both public and private sectors—facilitating the process through designated ‘confirmation days’ where employees receive paid time off to verify registrations, provided they submit proof of completion.

    Regarding new voter registrations, the Association notes that the Electoral Office’s temporary suspension caused significant uncertainty and disappointment across political and private sectors. With the announcement that registration will resume by March 10, 2026, the legal body anticipates this will rectify what may have constituted a breach of statutory continuous registration duties, encouraging all unregistered eligible citizens to enroll promptly.

    The statement concludes with a strong recommendation against calling elections before completing the confirmation period, warning that premature electoral proceedings could disenfranchise voters and compromise result legitimacy at national and international levels. The Association clarifies it possesses no knowledge of imminent election plans but addresses a legally permissible scenario that could undermine electoral integrity.

    Finally, the Dominica Bar Association commits to collaborating with all stakeholders—voters, state institutions, the Electoral Commission, and private sector entities—to protect the democratic rights of every citizen through enhanced confirmation processes and inclusive electoral measures.

  • Trevor Walker Says He Forgives Sir Robin For Brown Paper Bag Joke

    Trevor Walker Says He Forgives Sir Robin For Brown Paper Bag Joke

    In a parliamentary session marked by both solemn tribute and candid reflection, legislator Trevor Walker delivered a powerful address honoring Sir Robin Yearwood’s unprecedented half-century of legislative service while issuing a stark warning about the deteriorating state of political discourse.

    Walker characterized the celebration of Sir Robin’s 50-year tenure as a historic milestone unlikely to be repeated, emphasizing that this extraordinary achievement transcended partisan boundaries and deserved universal recognition. The event created a rare moment of unity within the chamber, with members setting aside political differences to acknowledge sustained public service.

    During his address, Walker articulated concerns about increasing political polarization, noting that the escalating hostility in parliamentary exchanges could deter future generations from pursuing public office. He emphasized that effective governance requires significant emotional maturity, describing politics as an arena ‘not for the faint-hearted’ where resilience against personal attacks is essential.

    In a notable demonstration of political reconciliation, Walker referenced a previously contentious incident involving Sir Robin’s allegation about a ‘brown paper bag containing cash.’ The humorous acknowledgment of past conflicts served to illustrate Walker’s central thesis: that political disagreements should remain confined to the chamber without evolving into lasting personal animosities.

    Walker underscored the importance of compartmentalizing heated parliamentary debates, urging colleagues to prevent professional disagreements from damaging interpersonal relationships outside the legislature. He shared his personal philosophy of consistently engaging with political opponents despite receiving ‘blows’ during legislative sessions.

    The address concluded with a call for aspiring politicians to develop the emotional fortitude necessary for public service, distinguishing between vigorous debate and personal hostility. Walker framed Sir Robin’s landmark career as both an inspiration and a cautionary tale about the evolving nature of political engagement.

  • Seven Government Senators sworn in

    Seven Government Senators sworn in

    Barbados has formally established its new parliamentary structure following the February 11 general election with the ceremonial swearing-in of seven Government Senators at State House on Thursday morning. The proceedings marked the final phase of assembling the nation’s legislative body after Members of Parliament were inaugurated earlier this week.

    The ceremony witnessed the appointment of The Most Honourable Reginald Farley, F.B., J.P., as President of the Senate, while The Most Honourable Elizabeth Thompson, F.B., assumed the role of Deputy President of the Senate. Both officials took their oaths during the dignified state event, signaling the commencement of the Upper House’s responsibilities for the new parliamentary term.

    Five additional senators were sworn into office, comprising John King, Roshanna Trim, Ramon Alleyne, Kamisha Benjamin, and Janeil Odle. These appointments complete the government’s representation in the Senate, which serves as the revising chamber within Barbados’ parliamentary system.

    The Senate’s constitutional mandate involves thorough scrutiny and deliberation of legislation approved by the House of Assembly. This critical function ensures proposed laws receive comprehensive examination before implementation. With all members now formally installed, the Senate can immediately begin its legislative duties, contributing to the democratic governance of Barbados through careful review processes and informed debate on matters of national importance.

  • Jury Sworn, Tight Security as Nigel Christian Murder Trial Opens

    Jury Sworn, Tight Security as Nigel Christian Murder Trial Opens

    A high-profile murder trial opened under stringent security protocols as three defendants faced charges for the abduction and killing of senior Customs official Nigel Christian. The proceedings commenced before Justice Rajiv Persaud with the selection of an eleven-member jury panel, comprising five men and six women, plus two alternates, following extensive vetting by both prosecution and defense teams.

    The accused—Lasean Bully, Wayne Thomas, and Saleim Harrigan—each entered not guilty pleas. The prosecution is led by Director of Public Prosecutions Clement Joseph and Curtis Cornelius, while the defense is represented by attorneys Sherfield Bowen, Michael Archibald, and Wendel Alexander.

    In an unusual security measure, all members of the public were subjected to searches before being permitted entry into the courtroom. Prosecutors outlined their case, alleging that on July 10, 2020, the defendants—wearing camouflage attire and impersonating police officers—forcibly took the 44-year-old Christian from his residence in McKinnons. His body was subsequently discovered in Thibou’s with fatal gunshot wounds.

    The trial is anticipated to extend over six weeks, with more than fifty witnesses scheduled to provide testimony. The case has drawn significant public attention due to the victim’s senior government role and the brazen nature of the crime.

  • Sir Molwyn Urges End to Divisive Politics During Tribute to Sir Robin

    Sir Molwyn Urges End to Divisive Politics During Tribute to Sir Robin

    During a special parliamentary session honoring Sir Robin Yearwood’s half-century of legislative service, Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph issued a compelling appeal for political transformation in Antigua and Barbuda. The veteran lawmaker utilized the ceremonial occasion to challenge opposition members to collaborate in halting what he characterized as damaging misinformation campaigns that are eroding the nation’s reputation.

    Joseph positioned his call for renewed political discourse against the backdrop of Sir Robin’s remarkable 50-year tenure, during which he secured eleven consecutive electoral victories in St. Philip’s North constituency. This extraordinary longevity, Joseph emphasized, demonstrates the democratic will of the electorate and should not be taken for granted.

    The minister contextualized Sir Robin’s service within the broader historical narrative of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party, noting its governance since 1976. He credited the founding generation of politicians—the ’76ers’—with establishing political stability and democratic frameworks that promoted national unity and peaceful coexistence.

    Momentarily lightening the tone, Joseph shared an anecdote about an unfulfilled promise involving one of Sir Robin’s goats, which elicited laughter from assembled lawmakers. However, he swiftly returned to sober reflections on contemporary challenges, noting that the nation faces particularly difficult times as a small island state navigating complex global pressures.

    Joseph concluded by framing the occasion as a pivotal moment for national renewal, urging legislators to leverage this milestone to elevate political discourse and advance the country’s strategic interests through unified action.

  • MWAG gears up for 14th Annual Media Awards

    MWAG gears up for 14th Annual Media Awards

    The 14th Annual Media Awards in Grenada will feature prominent human rights attorney Jacqueline McKenzie as keynote speaker, bringing global perspective to critical discussions on press freedom. McKenzie, an internationally recognized advocate for the Windrush generation and named among Top 10 Most Influential Black Britons in 2022, will address the gathering under the theme ‘Press Freedom and Responsibility in a Time of Consequence.’

    Media Workers Association of Grenada (MWAG) President Calistra Farrier emphasized McKenzie’s selection as strategically aligned with current global challenges. ‘With all major global events unfolding, Ms. McKenzie’s international reach adds significant value to this year’s awards and expands MWAG’s outreach,’ Farrier stated, noting that journalists now operate amid democratic strains, climate instability, technological disruption, and widespread disinformation.

    This year’s ceremony introduces several innovations, including a custom-designed trophy selected through an open competition that will become the awards’ permanent symbol. The event has received 99 entries across 20 categories, with two new awards being introduced: The President’s Youth Award for journalists aged 25 and under, supported by the Ministry of Information and Ariza Credit Union, and the Press Freedom Award honoring late Grenadian journalist Leslie Pierre.

    Farrier described Pierre, who passed away in December 2014, as a pivotal figure in Grenadian journalism who trained dozens of media professionals and demonstrated remarkable fortitude in defending press freedoms. ‘He stood on the front lines for press freedom, willing to face any consequences in defence of all journalists,’ she noted.

    Additionally, the Impact Song of the Year Award, supported by Spicemas Corporation, will recognize music as a powerful communication medium. Breaking from tradition, this year’s awards will be held at Pier 57 instead of the Grenada Trade Centre Annex, generating anticipation within Grenada’s media community.

  • Project Launched to Protect Antigua’s Honeybees from Deadly Varroa Mite

    Project Launched to Protect Antigua’s Honeybees from Deadly Varroa Mite

    Antigua and Barbuda has launched a multifaceted conservation project aimed at safeguarding honeybee populations from the devastating Varroa mite parasite while promoting sustainable beekeeping practices across the twin-island nation.

    Initiated in 2023 with funding from the Global Environment Facility’s Small Grants Programme (GEF SGP) implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the project represents a collaborative effort between the Antigua Beekeepers Cooperative and the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy. Under the supervision of Project Coordinator Mr. Brent Georges, the initiative incorporates several strategic components including extensive planting of bee-friendly vegetation, specialized queen bee breeding programs, and comprehensive hive inspection protocols.

    The project recently gained significant expertise with the February 6-16 visit of Mr. John Frederick, an accomplished queen bee breeder and apiary consultant from St. Lucia. Mr. Frederick conducted intensive field work with local beekeepers, sharing critical knowledge on advanced apiary management techniques and specialized methods for early detection, mitigation, and eradication of Varroa mite infestations.

    The Varroa mite, recognized globally as one of the most dangerous threats to honeybee health, is a parasitic pest capable of decimating entire colonies within three to four years if left unchecked. Its presence poses existential threats to both bee populations and the broader beekeeping industry.

    The engagement culminated in a highly interactive February 15th discussion session that extended well beyond its scheduled duration, demonstrating strong local interest among both established and prospective beekeepers. This enthusiastic participation underscores the project’s significance in building resilient agricultural systems and protecting vital pollinators essential for ecosystem health and food security.

  • Port Zante buzzes with thousands of visitors as four mega cruise ships dock in St Kitts  – WIC News

    Port Zante buzzes with thousands of visitors as four mega cruise ships dock in St Kitts  – WIC News

    Port Zante witnessed an extraordinary influx of maritime tourism activity on Wednesday as four major cruise ships simultaneously docked in St Kitts, transforming the Basseterre area into a vibrant hub of economic and cultural exchange. The formidable fleet comprising Arvia, Celebrity Apex, Mein Schiff 2, and Allure of the Seas delivered thousands of enthusiastic visitors eager to explore the island’s diverse attractions.

    The simultaneous docking operation represented a significant achievement in port logistics and coordination, with disembarking passengers immediately dispersing across the island to experience historical landmarks, pristine beach environments, and authentic cultural offerings. Local businesses reported substantial patronage as visitors engaged in restaurant dining, organized island tours, and retail activities throughout the day.

    A particularly notable aspect of the maritime event was MS Arvia’s record-breaking 29-hour overnight stay, marking the vessel’s eighth visit to Port Zante since November 2025. The extended docking period enabled 5,475 passengers to experience extended evening activities including cultural performances and nightlife offerings, providing significant economic benefits to local evening economy sectors.

    The tourism department reported that Arvia alone has transported 41,978 visitors to St Kitts during the current cruise season, with passenger counts consistently exceeding 5,300 per visit. The December 8th, 2025 arrival marked the highest single-visit volume with 5,746 passengers.

    Interactive experiences including karaoke sessions and primate encounters proved particularly popular among family groups, while organized tours provided structured exploration opportunities for first-time visitors. The successful coordination of multiple vessel operations demonstrates St Kitts’ growing prominence as a premier Caribbean cruise destination capable of handling high-volume tourism traffic while maintaining quality visitor experiences.

  • CDB and CLEAR-LAC organize regional conference to enhance monitoring and evaluation frameworks across the Caribbean

    CDB and CLEAR-LAC organize regional conference to enhance monitoring and evaluation frameworks across the Caribbean

    The Caribbean Development Bank’s Office of Independent Evaluation (OIE), in partnership with the Center for Learning on Evaluation and Results for Latin America and the Caribbean (CLEAR-LAC), will host a pivotal virtual workshop on March 5, 2026. Scheduled from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM Atlantic Standard Time, this session aims to revolutionize monitoring and evaluation frameworks across Caribbean nations.

    The event will introduce two transformative methodologies: the National Evaluation Capacities Index (INCE) and the Monitoring and Evaluation System Analysis (MESA) tools. These proven instruments enable comprehensive diagnostics of institutional vulnerabilities while pinpointing critical challenges and strategic priorities. Participants will gain exposure to adaptable best practices and cross-regional insights that have demonstrated success throughout Latin America.

    Roberto La Rovere, Head of CDB’s OIE, emphasized the workshop’s dual purpose: “Beyond introducing innovative tools, this initiative promotes substantive dialogue and regional cooperation. By disseminating INCE and MESA principles alongside successful national case studies, we empower Caribbean nations to enhance local expertise and fortify their evaluation infrastructures.”

    The workshop specifically targets evaluation professionals, M&E specialists, government officials from planning and finance ministries, public policy units, civil society representatives, and academic stakeholders. This capacity-building endeavor aligns with CDB’s strategic commitment to institutional resilience in borrowing member countries. Strengthened M&E systems enable governments to meticulously track public sector performance, assess developmental progress, and implement evidence-based policymaking.

    Registration remains open for this transformative regional workshop entitled ‘Tools for Monitoring & Evaluation,’ representing a significant advancement in the Caribbean’s journey toward data-driven governance.

  • CTUSAB demands urgent census after election list errors

    CTUSAB demands urgent census after election list errors

    The Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB) issued a forceful demand on Wednesday for an immediate national population census to rectify critical flaws in the electoral system. This urgent call follows widespread reports of voter disenfranchisement during last week’s general election, where numerous citizens discovered their names either missing from voter rolls or incorrectly assigned to different constituencies.

    CTUSAB General Secretary Dennis De Peiza delivered a blistering assessment of the electoral process during a press conference at the organization’s headquarters, characterizing the situation as “nothing short of a national disgrace.” He emphasized that while errors occurred, it remained imperative to implement corrective measures immediately to prevent future occurrences.

    The proposed national census, traditionally conducted at the beginning of each decade with the next scheduled for 2030, would enable authorities to thoroughly verify and update the current voter registry. De Peiza provided personal testimony regarding the system’s deficiencies, revealing that his deceased son had received official correspondence urging him to vote. This incident highlighted the registry’s failure to account for deceased individuals while simultaneously excluding eligible voters.

    Further complications emerged regarding overseas Barbadians who remained on voter lists but faced practical barriers to participation. De Peiza warned that persistent electoral irregularities could significantly damage Barbados’ international democratic standing, stating that ignoring blatant flaws would send negative signals to the global community.

    The labor leader additionally addressed concerning suggestions that citizens should vote strategically merely to ensure parliamentary opposition presence. He affirmed CTUSAB’s recognition of the opposition’s crucial role in ensuring effective legislation and providing policy alternatives, while cautioning against the dangers of unilateral decision-making in its absence.