作者: admin

  • New coalition pushes for reform, fairer representation, voter re-engagement

    New coalition pushes for reform, fairer representation, voter re-engagement

    A significant political realignment has emerged in Barbados as three emerging parties—the United Progressive Party (UPP), New National Party (NNP), and Conservative Barbados Leadership Party (CBLP)—have consolidated into the People’s Coalition for Progress (PCP) just weeks before the nation’s general election. This alliance positions itself as a viable alternative to Barbados’ established political duopoly.

    At the coalition’s inaugural press conference in Bridgetown, UPP leader Lynette Eastmond criticized Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s announcement of a snap election, contending the abbreviated timeline disadvantages voters rather than political organizations. “Calling a snap election with minimal notice undermines democratic participation,” Eastmond asserted. “This approach disadvantages Barbadian citizens who deserve adequate time to evaluate their voting options rather than defaulting to established parties or abstaining entirely.”

    Eastmond highlighted concerning voter apathy patterns, particularly in urban constituencies, attributing this trend to systemic neglect. She advocated for transitioning from Barbados’ current two-party framework toward multiparty parliamentary representation, citing nations with proportional representation systems that achieve superior Human Development Index rankings.

    The coalition leaders presented comprehensive reform proposals including constitutional amendments to implement fixed election dates, proportional representation instead of first-past-the-post voting, and reduction of parliamentary seats from 30 to better reflect Barbados’ population size. “Maintaining 30 parliamentary seats for 300,000 citizens represents excessive bureaucratic burden,” Eastmond contended.

    NNP leader Kemar Stuart raised concerns about electoral list integrity, revealing his own registration challenges despite being a parliamentary candidate. Regarding economic policy, Stuart warned about potential oil supply disruptions stemming from geopolitical tensions and suggested another International Monetary Fund arrangement might follow the election.

    CBLP leader Corey Beckles characterized the coalition as injecting renewed energy into Barbadian politics, emphasizing that “fresh parliamentary voices are essential after years of unfulfilled promises.”

    The PCP confirmed its candidates will contest individually like other parties, with elected members determining prime ministerial leadership. While the complete candidate roster remains forthcoming, the coalition pledged imminent publication of its full slate.

  • Security Scandal Deepens in BPO Industry as PM Launches Investigation

    Security Scandal Deepens in BPO Industry as PM Launches Investigation

    A significant security breach has rocked Belize’s Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry, prompting direct intervention from Prime Minister John Briceño. The escalating crisis involves sophisticated credit card fraud operations allegedly originating from within the sector itself, with multiple companies reporting substantial financial losses.

    The investigation gained urgency after a second private company came forward detailing thousands of dollars lost to an elaborate scam. Evidence suggests BPO employees have been circumventing PCI compliance protocols by smuggling mobile phones into secure workstations to capture customers’ sensitive financial information.

    KwiqPass, a prominent ticketing application platform, emerged as a primary victim of these fraudulent activities. Company representatives disclosed over $30,000 in illegitimate credit card transactions occurring within a two-year period. Detailed forensic analysis revealed a pattern of targeted attacks, including forty chargeback purchases for VIP tickets to the Belize International Music and Food Festival using a single compromised Chase Bank card.

    The fraud operation extended beyond concert tickets, encompassing semi-professional basketball games, special events in Corozal, and regional boxing matches. Investigators identified a consistent pattern of fraudulent purchases linked to a fake identity under the surname Atieno, totaling approximately $10,000 in additional losses.

    In response to these security breaches, KwiqPass has implemented enhanced verification protocols that automatically flag and block suspicious transactions in real-time. This proactive measure aims to protect both event promoters and consumers from further financial harm.

    Prime Minister Briceño acknowledged the gravity of the situation while emphasizing the government’s commitment to preserving the industry’s stability. “We have a responsibility to ensure we can keep these companies here and protect their interests,” Briceño stated, confirming collaboration with the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) to address systemic vulnerabilities.

    Industry observers note the potential catastrophic consequences if security concerns persist. Delroy Fairweather of KwiqPass warned that continued breaches could trigger widespread distrust, potentially leading to BPO closures and significant job losses throughout Belize.

    The Prime Minister is scheduled to convene with ministry officials to develop strengthened security frameworks for the sector. The Belize BPO Association has not yet issued an official statement regarding the ongoing investigation.

  • Politic : Demolition on Boulevard du Cap

    Politic : Demolition on Boulevard du Cap

    A controversial urban redevelopment initiative in northern Haiti has triggered significant economic and social concerns among business leaders. On January 9, 2026, municipal authorities launched “Operation Sidewalk Reclamation” along Cap-Haïtien’s strategic boulevard, a prime tourist and commercial corridor. Under the direction of Marc Merzius Présumé, Departmental Delegate of the North, and with Mayor Angie Bell present, the operation resulted in the complete demolition of at least 17 buildings and commercial structures deemed to be encroaching on public land.

    The North Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI Nord) has issued a formal statement expressing profound concern regarding the execution methodology of the demolition campaign. While explicitly refraining from challenging the legal basis of the operation, the Chamber’s President, Steve A. Mathieu, criticized the absence of reasonable notice, transparent planning, and proper consultation with affected businesses.

    According to the Chamber’s declaration, previous discussions with authorities had addressed general urban concerns in Cap-Haïtien but never specifically outlined demolition plans of this scale. The business organization condemned what it characterized as a “hasty, haphazard, and unilateral approach” that failed to consider the substantial economic, social, and human consequences for local enterprises and families.

    The statement further denounced reported incidents of power abuse and violence against individuals, including women attempting to exercise their right to peaceful protest. The Chamber expressed solidarity with victims while reiterating its commitment to participatory urban development processes that balance public interest, heritage preservation, and economic protection through dialogue and transparent governance.

  • VVI zet in op directe maatregelen om verkeersdoden terug te dringen

    VVI zet in op directe maatregelen om verkeersdoden terug te dringen

    Suriname’s Traffic Safety Institute (VVI) has declared 2026 a year of decisive action rather than delayed planning in its intensified campaign to reduce road accidents and casualties. Under a sharpened policy direction, the institute will prioritize prevention, enhanced enforcement, and improved data analytics through close collaboration with the Suriname Police Force (KPS) and other security partners.

    VVI Director Joanne Kasno-Adraai emphasized that traffic safety constitutes an urgent necessity rather than a luxury. ‘Far too many lives are affected annually by preventable traffic incidents,’ Kasno-Adraai stated. ‘The recent severe bus accident and numerous casualties early this year demonstrate we can no longer afford delays. Immediate action is required.’

    Following consultations with the Ministry of Justice and Police leadership, VVI has established its 2026 policy framework according to Suriname’s Communication Service. This strategy rests upon four foundational pillars: prevention, education, strengthened enforcement, and innovative data applications. A cornerstone initiative involves the official launch of a five-year strategic traffic safety plan scheduled for presentation to the government shortly.

    Two measures have been designated particularly urgent within this framework: deployment of specialized traffic enforcement units and implementation of moped certification. Kasno-Adraai confirmed these proposals have been fully developed and await execution. ‘This is no longer about planning but implementation,’ she asserted. ‘Every delay costs human lives.’

    VVI data reveals moped riders currently represent the largest group of traffic victims, highlighting the necessity for improved training, testing, and guidance. Moped certification aims to foster safer riding behavior, increased responsibility awareness, and structural accident reduction.

    Enforcement will receive enhanced focus during 2026 through specialized training and deployment of traffic enforcement specialists to bolster KPS capabilities. Traffic education programs will target secondary educational institutions, engaging not only students but also teachers and parents. Special enforcement protocols have been prepared for high-risk holiday periods.

    Supporting these initiatives, VVI is developing a modern data dashboard to provide policymakers and enforcement agencies with real-time traffic insights. Concurrently, traffic safety awareness will be actively promoted across television, radio, print media, and digital platforms.

    ‘The Ministry of Justice and Police, VVI, and KPS are collectively working toward one objective: sustainably reducing traffic casualties and creating safer road environments for everyone,’ Kasno-Adraai concluded. ‘But certain steps must be taken immediately.’

  • Four Charged for Shooting Outside Belize City Club

    Four Charged for Shooting Outside Belize City Club

    BELIZE CITY – A violent altercation outside a local nightclub in the early hours of Friday, January 16th, 2026, resulted in a significant police operation that led to four arrests and the removal of two illegal firearms from circulation. The incident occurred approximately at 3:00 AM along Newton Barracks, prompting immediate tactical deployment when officers detected active gunfire in the vicinity.

    According to Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith, the swift law enforcement response culminated in the detention of four individuals: Guadalupe Escalante (28), Kenyan Mascal (19), Norman Grant (20), and Sherry Card (31). Two vehicles connected to the shooting were intercepted during the investigation—a red Kia Soul and a black Ford Escort.

    Forensic searches yielded substantial evidence: a .38 caliber revolver with five expended shells and 24 live rounds recovered from the first vehicle, alongside a 9mm Taurus pistol with a magazine containing four live rounds discovered in the second vehicle.

    Charges have been formally filed against all suspects. Escalante and Mascal face joint charges for possessing unlicensed firearms and ammunition, plus separate counts for discharging weapons in public. Grant and Card similarly face joint charges for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.

    ASP Smith revealed that preliminary investigations indicate the shooting originated from a dispute at a nearby business establishment. The police operation benefited from coordinated intelligence gathering, including footage analysis from the Police Control Room and Fusion Center, followed by covert surveillance operations that enabled successful vehicle interceptions.

    The Belize City Police Department emphasized this operation demonstrates their continued vigilance against illegal firearms and commitment to public safety, particularly in nightlife districts where such incidents pose significant community risks.

  • Shooting Victim Runs to King Street Police Station

    Shooting Victim Runs to King Street Police Station

    BELIZE CITY – A violent ambush on Euphrates Avenue has left a 25-year-old man hospitalized and local authorities searching for answers. The incident occurred on the evening of Friday, January 16th, 2026, when Justin Gentle was targeted by two masked assailants while walking through the area.

    According to Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith, officers on patrol were first alerted to the crime by the sound of gunfire at approximately 8:30 PM. Shortly thereafter, the victim himself arrived at Precinct One police station seeking medical assistance after sustaining gunshot wounds.

    The investigation reveals that two unidentified males wearing hoodies and face coverings opened fire on Gentle, striking him multiple times before fleeing the scene. Police have collected substantial surveillance footage from the area which has provided investigators with actionable intelligence regarding the perpetrators and their escape.

    Following emergency treatment at the scene, Gentle was transported to Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital where he remains in stable condition. The extent of his cooperation with investigators remains unclear at this time, according to official statements.

    This shooting marks another concerning incident in a series of recent criminal activities that have troubled Belize City residents, coming on the heels of another reported case where a suspect escaped custody after robbing tourists.

  • Drunk Woman Butchers Ex-Girlfriend

    Drunk Woman Butchers Ex-Girlfriend

    A domestic altercation in Belize City escalated into a violent assault in the early hours of Sunday, January 19, 2026, leaving one woman critically injured and another in police custody. The incident occurred at a residence on Central American Boulevard shortly after midnight.

    According to official reports from the Belize Police Department, authorities were notified of a stabbing incident through emergency channels. Upon arrival, officers discovered 36-year-old Samira Gentle unconscious and suffering from multiple severe chop and stab wounds. Emergency medical services promptly transported her to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital where she remains in critical condition.

    Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith, serving as Staff Officer, provided details of the ongoing investigation. “Scenes of crime technicians have processed the location and retrieved items of evidential value,” Smith stated. “Our preliminary investigation indicates that Gentle was at the residence when a verbal dispute escalated into physical confrontation, resulting in her injuries.”

    Police have detained a person of interest described as the victim’s former partner. The suspect, reportedly intoxicated at the time of arrest, has not yet been formally charged due to her inability to cooperate with investigators. ASP Smith confirmed that charges would be considered once the individual becomes coherent enough to provide a statement.

    The case continues to develop as investigators work to reconstruct the events leading to the violent outbreak. This incident marks another serious case of domestic violence in the region, highlighting concerns about alcohol-fueled conflicts turning lethal.

  • Casa Dominicana launched in Hong Kong and Macao to boost trade and tourism

    Casa Dominicana launched in Hong Kong and Macao to boost trade and tourism

    A new strategic initiative designed to foster economic and cultural exchange between the Dominican Republic and China’s Special Administrative Regions has been formally inaugurated. Dubbed ‘Casa Dominicana/Hong Kong and Macao,’ the project is spearheaded by the investment promotion agency InvestDR with the primary objective of enhancing bilateral trade flows, stimulating investment opportunities, and boosting tourism.

    The launch event, structured as a high-profile luncheon hosted by InvestDR President Kelly Leung, served as a platform to showcase the Dominican Republic’s vast potential as an emerging market for discerning investors from Hong Kong and Macau. The initiative enjoys robust institutional support, having secured the official endorsement of both the Dominican Consulate General and the Dominican-Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong. This backing is a critical component of the Caribbean nation’s broader strategic pivot to deepen its economic footprint across Asia.

    The gathering also functioned as an occasion to honor key figures who have been instrumental in advancing Dominican interests in the region. Among those recognized were Sonia Chan Prado, representing the Macao Association for the Promotion of Exchange between Asia-Pacific and Latin America, and Dato’ Sri Maximus Baldur of the World Trade United Foundation. The event drew a diverse audience of leaders from the business, religious, and diplomatic communities.

    In a symbolic handover, the outgoing Consul General, Eduardo Álvarez, addressed attendees, urging continued collaboration and support for his successor, Luis Ernesto Camilo, to ensure the initiative’s enduring success and the strengthening of bilateral relations.

  • Gunman Open Fire on Dangriga Fish Shed

    Gunman Open Fire on Dangriga Fish Shed

    A weekend shooting incident in Dangriga has left community members alarmed after an innocent fisherman became the unintended victim of targeted gun violence in a public space. The brazen attack occurred on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at approximately 6:15 PM near the bustling fish shed along Riverside Street—a location regularly frequented by local residents and workers.

    According to official police statements provided by ASP Stacy Smith, Staff Officer, thirty-four-year-old Berchel Balthazar, a Belizean fisherman from the Wagierale area, sustained gunshot wounds during the incident. Preliminary investigations indicate that two unidentified males aboard a motorcycle arrived at the location and discharged multiple rounds toward the area before swiftly fleeing the scene.

    Law enforcement authorities have confirmed that Mr. Balthazar, who was promptly transported to Southern Regional Hospital for treatment, was not the intended target of the shooting. Investigators have collected substantial surveillance footage from the vicinity and are currently analyzing this evidence to advance their investigation and identify the perpetrators.

    The incident has heightened existing concerns about the potential spillover of gang-related violence into public commercial areas, threatening the safety of ordinary citizens going about their daily activities. Police continue to pursue active leads while the community remains on alert following this disturbing violation of public security.

  • U.S. Traveler Briefly Detained for Firearm at PGIA; Police Justify Release

    U.S. Traveler Briefly Detained for Firearm at PGIA; Police Justify Release

    Belizean law enforcement officials are addressing public scrutiny following a controversial airport security incident at Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) over the weekend. Security personnel detained an American businessman on Saturday after scanners identified a concealed firearm within his luggage during standard screening procedures.

    According to Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith, Staff Officer, the individual immediately claimed unawareness of the weapon’s presence, characterizing the violation as an inadvertent oversight. Following the detection, authorities placed the traveler in temporary detention and initiated an extensive background investigation through Interpol channels. Subsequent communications with U.S. Embassy officials confirmed the businessman had no criminal record or status as a person of interest in ongoing investigations.

    ASP Smith defended the decision to release the individual and confiscate the firearm as a legitimate exercise of police discretion. She emphasized the plausibility of the traveler’s account, noting that arriving via private flight approximately one day prior to conduct business operations supported his claim of unintentional violation. The businessman received formal caution and reprimand before being permitted to depart.

    The incident has sparked legal debate regarding police authority in firearms cases, particularly concerning provisions that mandate Supreme Court bail for such offenses. Police maintain that discretionary powers have been routinely exercised in appropriate circumstances, though this application to firearms violations represents a notable precedent.