At the opening of a pivotal regional forum in Barbados, Caribbean leaders issued a powerful call for concrete strategies to achieve climate justice, emphasizing the urgent need for approaches that can endure major geopolitical disruptions. Cletus Springer, Chair of the Caribbean Natural Resources Institute (CANARI), set the tone for the two-day CANARI Partners Forum, declaring the gathering a forum for “strategic action” rather than theoretical discussion. The event, themed ‘Towards climate justice in the Caribbean: building understanding and catalysing partnerships and finance,’ brings together regional and international stakeholders to address climate change as a critical development and human rights priority. Springer framed the discussions against a backdrop of what he termed “truly seismic geopolitical upheaval,” warning that the rapid erosion of the global multilateral system threatens to marginalize small island states. He posed a central challenge to delegates: “How do we advance a climate justice agenda that is robust enough to survive current and future geopolitical shocks?” The CANARI chair highlighted the escalating climate impacts across the region, including increasing extreme weather events and a developing drought in the Eastern Caribbean that’s expected to extend well into the traditional rainy season. These impacts, he noted, validate regional leaders’ characterization of climate change as “an existential threat to the sustainable development of the Caribbean.” Springer underscored the “profound unfairness” of the global climate system where those least responsible for greenhouse gas emissions bear the greatest burden. He emphasized that climate justice must address structural power imbalances and move beyond technical solutions to confront root causes of vulnerability amplified by factors including gender, race, and poverty. The forum represents a significant effort to develop practical approaches that protect vulnerable livelihoods while challenging the systemic inequalities that exacerbate climate injustice.
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PM Briceño Confirms Credit Card Scam Investigation
Prime Minister John Briceño has officially verified to News 5 that Belizean authorities are conducting an extensive investigation into a sophisticated credit card fraud operation that has compromised the nation’s vital call center industry. The scheme, initially exposed earlier this month, represents a significant threat to an economic sector that employs approximately 20,000 citizens and generates around $150 million in annual revenue.
The fraudulent operation spans international boundaries, connecting U.S. victims to Belize City restaurants through sophisticated digital theft. Call center employees have been systematically violating Payment Card Industry (PCI) security standards by covertly recording customers’ credit card numbers and CVV codes during transactions. This stolen financial data was subsequently utilized to place food orders through mobile applications, particularly targeting establishments like Chon Saan Palace restaurant.
Investigative findings reveal the scheme’s alarming scale, with over 400 fraudulent chargebacks identified at a single restaurant. Perpetrators demonstrated adaptability by circumventing enhanced security measures, including ID verification systems, through photographing identification cards. The criminal network has since evolved, with gang members now allegedly marketing stolen credit card information—complete with names, numbers, CVVs, and addresses—via WhatsApp platforms.
Prime Minister Briceño emphasized the government’s dual commitment to protecting both the call center industry and affected local businesses. He stressed that international victims must file formal police reports to enable comprehensive investigations and indicated authorities’ readiness to implement stricter penalties for offenders if necessary. The case highlights growing concerns about digital financial crimes and their impact on developing economies dependent on technology-driven industries.
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Shyne Barrow Says “A Monopoly Benefits the Belizean People”
In a significant political development, former United Democratic Party (UDP) leader Moses “Shyne” Barrow has voiced conditional support for Belize Telemedia Limited’s proposed acquisition of Speednet, arguing that state-controlled monopolies can deliver public benefit. The controversial stance emerged during a January 19th press engagement where Barrow challenged prevailing skepticism toward market consolidation.
Barrow presented a comparative analysis of Belize’s infrastructure landscape, noting: “Our nation already operates sanctioned monopolies in critical sectors including Belize Electricity Limited and Belize Water Services. The ideological resistance to telecommunications consolidation appears inconsistent when examining existing market structures.” The former opposition leader specifically addressed shareholder concerns, emphasizing that since BTL operates as a public-private partnership with majority Belizean ownership, any resulting monopoly would ultimately benefit citizens through consolidated returns.
Despite his theoretical support, Barrow delivered scathing criticism of BTL’s leadership for their disastrous public rollout of the proposal. He characterized the board’s communications strategy as profoundly mishandled, creating unnecessary public distrust. Barrow particularly contested the board chairman’s characterization of BTL as a private entity, asserting: “This represents a fundamental misrepresentation of corporate structure. As a PPP model with majority public ownership, the enterprise ultimately serves the Belizean people.”
The former UDP leader simultaneously addressed internal party tensions, criticizing current UDP Leader Tracy Panton for her undisclosed meeting with Lord Ashcroft aboard his yacht. Barrow questioned the timing and opacity of the engagement, suggesting it undermined Panton’s credibility to demand transparency in the BTL-Speednet negotiations.
Prime Minister John Briceño has maintained that BTL’s board should pursue corporate interests independently, while opposition figures demand greater transparency before approving any merger. The developing situation reveals deep philosophical divisions regarding market regulation and public ownership in Belize’s political landscape.
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Winless Windwards fall to Barbados
The Windward Islands’ challenging campaign in the Cricket West Indies T20 Blaze continued with a narrow three-wicket defeat against Barbados on Saturday, January 17th, marking their third consecutive loss in the tournament hosted at Arnos Vale Sporting Complex in Kingstown, St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
The team faced additional adversity with the absence of captain Zaida James, a West Indies allrounder who was sidelined with a minor injury. Acting captain Jannillea Glasgow won the toss and elected to bat first, but the decision yielded little advantage as the Windwards struggled profoundly during the powerplay.
Their innings began disastrously, losing three crucial wickets within the initial eight overs while managing a meager 32 runs. Glasgow labored to eight runs from 21 deliveries, while Nerissa Crafton of Saint Lucia contributed just six from nine balls, highlighting the team’s inability to find gaps in the field.
Veteran international player Afy Fletcher emerged as the batting anchor, stabilizing the innings through a productive partnership with Carena Noel that added 37 runs across seven overs. Fletcher’s composed knock of 35 from 32 deliveries, including three boundaries, provided temporary respite before her departure in the 15th over. The final phase proved equally challenging as the Windwards lost four additional wickets while adding only 17 runs, concluding at 86-8 from their allotted overs.
Barbados’ Shamilia Connell delivered an exceptional bowling performance, claiming four wickets for just eight runs from her four overs of right-arm medium pace, effectively dismantling the Windwards’ batting lineup.
Despite the modest target, Barbados encountered significant resistance during their chase. The Windwards’ bowling attack, though disciplined in periods, conceded 24 extras that substantially aided the opposition’s pursuit. A developing partnership of 30 runs between Naijanni Cumberbatch and Asabi Callender was broken by debutant Aidith Gasper, who claimed Cumberbatch as the first of her two wickets.
Although Afy Fletcher, Aidith Gasper, and Abini St Jean each captured two wickets in a spirited defense of the low total, Barbados ultimately secured victory at the beginning of the 17th over through a combination of wayward bowling and a late-order contribution of 12 from 13 balls by Allison Gordon.
The absence of Captain James was notably felt across all three facets of the game—batting, bowling, and fielding—exacerbating the team’s challenges. Previous losses to Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago by 16 runs had already positioned the Windwards precariously in the standings. Fletcher and Glasgow currently rank fourth and fifth respectively in runs scored after three rounds with 82 and 70 runs, but the team remains winless and sits above only Jamaica in the standings due to bowling points. These two bottom-placed teams are scheduled to meet on January 19th in what promises to be a crucial encounter for both sides.
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Shyne Responds to Being Left Off UDP Former Leaders List
Belizean politician Moses “Shyne” Barrow has publicly contested his exclusion from the United Democratic Party’s roster of former leaders “in good standing,” labeling the move as both divisive and constitutionally improper. The controversy emerged during a recent UDP press conference where Barrow’s name was conspicuously absent from the honored list.
Expressing profound disappointment to News Five, Barrow emphasized his extensive service record as opposition leader, UDP party leader, and longstanding Mesopotamia constituency representative. “I’ve served my country with all that I’ve had,” Barrow stated, reaffirming his ongoing commitment to his constituents despite the party’s apparent snub.
The political veteran highlighted constitutional requirements, noting that formal due process must precede any declaration of bad standing status. “If they want to say I am in bad standing, thus I don’t qualify, they would have to have a meeting, which they have not done,” Barrow asserted, questioning the procedural validity of his exclusion.
Barrow further accused current UDP leadership of double standards, recalling previous instances where he disciplined members for public criticism only to be told such actions violated freedom of speech principles. “I would like to see what their position is now,” he challenged.
The tension appears rooted in Barrow’s historical disagreements with Opposition Leader Tracy Panton, including his 2025 legal challenge against the Elections and Boundaries Commission regarding use of UDP’s signature red color by Panton’s Alliance for Democracy candidates. The Supreme Court ultimately dismissed the case as moot.
Recent tensions reignited when Barrow included his name on promotional materials as “Shyne Barrow, Mesopotamia, UDP,” prompting Panton to publicly affirm Lee Mark Chang as the area’s sole duly elected representative. Barrow countered that while Chang holds the elected position, he never officially secured standard-bearer or caretaker status through proper party procedures.
Barrow lamented the public nature of the dispute, emphasizing that internal resolution mechanisms should have been pursued. UDP Leader Tracy Panton responded to inquiries by noting the National Party Council had not yet convened to determine standing status, with the first meeting scheduled for January 31, 2026.
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Virginia Asin-Oostburg neemt roer van Shanti Venetiaan over bij AdeKUS
PARAMARIBO – Suriname’s Anton de Kom University (AdeKUS) has inaugurated a new governing board chaired by Virginia Asin-Oostburg, marking a significant transition in the institution’s leadership. The official installation ceremony was presided over by Minister of Education, Science and Culture Dirk Currie, who expressed profound gratitude to the outgoing board led by Shanti Venetiaan for their service.
The newly formed board comprises Rose-Ann Franklin, Maya Manohar, Renald Laing, and Melody Hoefdraad alongside Chairwoman Asin-Oostburg. The composition remains temporarily incomplete, with positions reserved for upcoming representatives from the business community, scientific faculty, administrative staff, and student body.
Minister Currie articulated a vision of radical inclusivity as the cornerstone of national education policy. ‘Financial constraints should never impede access to higher education,’ he asserted, emphasizing the government’s commitment to removing systemic barriers. The minister called for comprehensive legislative reforms to modernize Suriname’s higher education framework, enabling more responsive adaptation to socioeconomic transformations.
Currie challenged the new leadership to diversify academic programs aligned with sustainable national development. While acknowledging the temporary economic boon from oil and gas sectors, he cautioned against over-reliance on finite resources. ‘Strategic expansion into agriculture, tourism, and innovation-based industries is imperative for long-term prosperity,’ Currie stated.
The minister outlined expectations for AdeKUS to evolve into a self-sustaining institution through enhanced corporate partnerships, collaboration with private education providers, and strengthened international academic ties. Outgoing Chair Venetiaan characterized the transition as ‘challenging yet rewarding,’ offering congratulations to the incoming team. Asin-Oostburg affirmed the board’s readiness to ‘commence work with vigor and purpose,’ acknowledging the clarity of ministerial directives.
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Private sector asks for higher income tax threshold, tax breaks on some businesses in 2026 national budget
In a significant pre-budget consultation with Guyana’s Ministry of Finance, the Private Sector Commission (PSC) has presented a comprehensive package of tax reduction proposals aimed at stimulating economic growth and increasing disposable income for both businesses and workers.
The January 17 meeting, attended by Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh and representatives from major business organizations, centered on the PSC’s recommendations for the upcoming 2026 national budget. PSC President Gerry Gouveia Jr. characterized the proposals as designed to “maximize the net take home for local businesses as well as employees” while addressing inflationary pressures.
Key recommendations include completely eliminating corporate income tax for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with annual earnings below GY$60 million for their first three years of operation. The PSC also advocates raising the personal income tax threshold from GY$130,000 to GY$160,000 and implementing “significant increases” to the current minimum salary of GY$102,346.
To address Guyana’s critical labor shortage exceeding 50,000 workers, the commission proposes reducing the migrant worker withholding tax from 20% to 10% for foreign specialists. Additional measures include cutting the standard corporate tax rate from 40% to 25% over two years, eliminating the 2% minimum corporate tax on gross turnover, and reducing VAT from 14% to 12% overall with zero rating applied to locally produced food, water, and cooking gas.
The proposals extend beyond conventional business interests, incorporating social development components such as tax credits for charitable donations and sports sponsorships, plus support for childcare institutions and gender equality initiatives. In the housing sector, the private sector seeks removal of 5% duties on cement and finishing materials to reduce construction costs for three-bedroom homes by approximately GY$2 million.
While Minister Singh expressed enthusiasm for the “creative and informative” nature of the proposals, particularly those supporting underprivileged populations, no firm commitments were made during the consultation. Further discussions are expected before the budget’s presentation on January 26, 2026.
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Police seeking Turvy Frederick in serious criminal probe
Barbados law enforcement officials have initiated a public search operation for Turvy Frederick, identified as a person of interest in ongoing investigations into serious criminal activities. The Barbados Police Service has formally requested community assistance in locating the individual, who remains at large despite active investigative efforts.
Frederick, whose last documented residence was in the Barbarees Hill area of St Michael parish, stands approximately six feet tall with a slender physique, dark complexion, and distinctive plaited hairstyle. Authorities have issued specific guidance for the suspect’s surrender, recommending he present himself voluntarily at the Criminal Investigations Department located within the Black Rock Police Station premises. The police advisory explicitly notes that Frederick should be accompanied by legal representation of his choosing during this process.
Law enforcement agencies have established multiple communication channels for information regarding the suspect’s whereabouts. Citizens can contact the Black Rock Police Station directly at 417-7500 or 417-7505, utilize the Police Emergency hotline at 211, or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477. Alternatively, individuals may approach any nearby police station to share relevant information.
The Barbados Police Service has concurrently issued a stern warning regarding the legal consequences of obstructing justice. Officials emphasized that harboring or actively assisting wanted individuals constitutes a criminal offense under Barbadian law, with perpetrators facing potential prosecution. This reminder underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating the case and their commitment to apprehending the individual through lawful means.
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Japan’s JET programme accepting new applications
The Government of Japan has officially extended participation in the esteemed Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme to citizens of Saint Lucia for the 2026 cycle. This international initiative provides a unique professional pathway for qualified individuals to serve as Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) within Japan’s educational system, specifically in the culturally rich Kagoshima Prefecture.
Beyond their primary instructional responsibilities, selected participants will undertake the significant role of cultural ambassadors. This dimension of the program entails actively sharing Saint Lucian heritage, traditions, and perspectives with local Japanese communities, thereby fostering a vibrant two-way cultural dialogue. The longstanding bilateral engagement, which commenced in 2003, has consistently enriched Japanese classrooms and substantially strengthened the bonds of friendship between the two nations.
The professional appointment is structured as an initial one-year contract, commencing in 2026. This term is subject to renewal for up to a maximum of three years, contingent upon satisfactory performance evaluations. In certain exceptional cases, participants may be eligible for an extension, potentially allowing for a stay of up to five years.
Prospective applicants are required to submit their complete application packages via email to culture@po.mofa.go.jp no later than the strict deadline of March 13, 2026. Furthermore, original supporting documents must be physically mailed to the Embassy of Japan in Trinidad and Tobago, addressed to the JET Coordinator at 5 Hayes Street, St. Clair, Port of Spain. Comprehensive information regarding eligibility criteria, application procedures, and detailed program guidelines is available on the official embassy website.
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New diagnostic centre offers early MRI access in Antigua and Barbuda
In a proactive move to address healthcare delays, a private diagnostic imaging facility in Antigua has initiated MRI scanning operations ahead of its official opening. The Doctors Medical Centre took this decisive action responding to severe bottlenecks in existing medical imaging services that have forced patients to endure weeks-long waits for essential scans required to determine treatment pathways.
Equipped with pioneering technology for the Eastern Caribbean region, the center features an open MRI system specifically engineered to comfort patients experiencing claustrophobia during procedures. This advanced apparatus incorporates artificial intelligence algorithms to significantly improve diagnostic image precision and clarity.
Medical Director Dr. Joey John emphasized that their services extend beyond referrals from Mount St. John’s Medical Centre, making scanning accessible to the general public with priority given to reducing the substantial backlog of cases. The facility operates with newly installed cutting-edge equipment and a team of highly trained specialist staff.
Upon full operational status, the center intends to provide a comprehensive range of diagnostic imaging services. This development comes amid persistent concerns from health authorities regarding how constrained imaging capabilities have consistently hampered timely diagnoses and treatment across Antigua and Barbuda, affecting patient care outcomes.